Which of the following is a common side effect of medications in elderly residents?

Confusion is indeed a common side effect of medications in elderly residents. This population often experiences polypharmacy, where individuals take multiple medications simultaneously, increasing the risk of interactions and side effects. Many medications can affect the central nervous system and lead to cognitive changes, such as confusion or delirium. This effect can be exacerbated by age-related changes in metabolism and renal functioning, which can alter the way drugs are processed in the body.

In elderly individuals, confusion can arise from various factors, including the sedative properties of certain medications, anticholinergic effects, or the impact of pain medications and antidepressants. Monitoring mental status is crucial in this demographic to ensure that medications are not adversely affecting cognitive functioning.

While increased appetite, weight gain, and improved vision may occur as a result of certain medications, they are not common or expected side effects in the elderly, especially when compared to the prevalence and significance of confusion.