Can my mother who is 93 and is on valium for the last 38 years come off this medicine and why would a dr want her to come off it?

Valium: is a short acting medication that can cause confusion in older people. It can also cause depression. Over time increasing doses are needed to achieve the same effect. So frequent dosing is advised if this agent is used. Its hard to come off Valium. The withdrawal state is that of anxiety (which one often sees as a dose wears off) We often switch to Klonopin (clonazepam) (long half life) to taper off benzo's

Risk: Valium and other benzodiazepines are associated with increased risk in falling (head injury and hip fracture) in elderly patients. Elderly patients also have changes in their metabolism of the drug that can result in over sedation or paradoxical reactions. I would recommend sitting down with the physician and asking directly what their reasoning is.

Valium: at her age using valium could be dangerous due to increased confusion. If she decides to come off the medicine it must be done slowly over weeks or months

Risks vs benefits: Prescribers weigh benefits against risks when recommending a medication. Benzodiazepines (eg Valium/diazepam), can increase risks of delirium/confusion, falls, & fractures in elderly, but may still be appropriate if benefits outweigh risks. When taken around-the-clock for lengthy periods, they should be tapered off rather than stopped suddenly. Specific concerns should be discussed with prescriber