Analysis of Polypharmacy in Elderly Patients: Current Status, Risks, and Intervention Strategies

China is experiencing rapid population aging, accompanied by a prevalence of more health problems and polypharmacy among older adults. Although multiple medications may be clinically necessary for chronic diseases, a situation that is common among older adults, it can increase the risks of inappropriate medication use, drug-drug interactions, and adverse drug reactions. This paper analyzes the current status and causes of polypharmacy among old patients in China, examines its major risks, and explores potential management strategies under the context of AI. This article uses literature analysis to synthesize evidence on polypharmacy, medication safety, pharmaceutical interventions, and AI-assisted management; uses a case study of an older Chinese patient with multimorbidity and polypharmacy to illustrate practical management challenges; and uses contrastive analysis of conventional and AI-assisted approaches. The analysis suggests that AI is able to identify drug-interaction and potentially inappropriate medication, medication-risk prediction, adherence support, and individualized medication optimization. However, AI should function as a decision-support tool rather than replace physicians or pharmacists. A human-AI collaborative model, supported by appropriate clinical oversight, may provide a more systematic, proactive, and individualized approach to polypharmacy management.