Let's Talk About Prescriptions: Effective Medication Management Tips for Seniors

According to Kaiser Family Foundation, approximately nine out of ten adults over 65 take at least one prescription medication. Older adults are also more likely to take multiple prescription medications, in addition to over-the-counter medications and/or other supplements. According to another study, as many as 55 percent of older adults take their medications improperly. Many older adults admit to frequently making mistakes with their medication.

October is National Talk About Prescriptions Month. Whether you're in your early sixties or late nineties, taking prescription and non-prescription medication or supplements should be treated with great caution. Family caregivers should also be aware of the dangers of mismanaged medications. Here are a few practical medication management tips for seniors that may save your life.

Create a Medication List

Schedule an appointment with your doctor to review all your medications. Either write down every medication and supplement you take regularly or bring every pillbox to the appointment. Review each medication with your doctor and discuss if it's still appropriate for your condition. Also, ask about your current dosage and if it's still accurate for your age. Once you have established your current medication regimen, write it down. Include specific instructions, such as when to take it, with or without food, what dosage, and what to avoid taking together. Take this list to each future doctor appointment and update as needed.

Be Aware of Side-Effects and Drug Interactions

Certain medications can impact how another medication acts or doesn't act. As you review your medications with your doctor, ask about side effects and drug interactions. Avoid taking over-the-counter medications and supplements without consulting your doctor first. Some over-the-counter medications and supplements may have an interaction with your prescription medication, causing your prescription to be more or less effective. It's also important to be aware of any possible side effects of your medications, especially when you're starting a new prescription. Ask what steps you can take to reduce the risk of severe side effects and be sure to follow your doctor's recommendations.

Use a Pill Box

It's challenging to manage multiple medications or even remember if you've already taken your one daily pill. Help eliminate doubt by using a pillbox. Pillboxes are common and a very effective way to manage medication. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. Some offer AM/PM options to simplify your morning and nighttime pills. Pick a pillbox that works for you. Keep it in a central location so that it reminds you to take your medication. Then, commit to refilling your pillbox weekly. Ask a trusted family member to double-check your pillbox if you have any concerns.

Establish a Medication Routine

Another practical medication management tip is establishing a mediation routine so that taking your medications accurately becomes a natural part of your day. Place your medications or pillbox next to something you always use in the morning, such as your coffee maker. You'll see the pillbox and remember to take your medications before or with breakfast. If you take any medications before bed, keep a pillbox next to your toothbrush in your bathroom. As you get ready for bed, you'll see your pillbox and remember to take your pills before going to bed. Creating a routine around your medications helps you avoid missing a dose or doubling up on medication.

Visiting Angels of Santa Clarita is here to help older adults and their families. Our senior care providers understand the importance of providing care with dignity and respect. Our professional caregivers can assist you with filling a weekly pillbox with your prescription medications according to your doctor's order. They can also remind you to take your medication during their visits. As a non-medical senior care agency, we won't ask you to change your schedule to meet our needs. The senior care professionals from Visiting Angels of Santa Clarita always work on your schedule. To learn more about our home care services and how we can help, please get in touch with us today by calling 661-263-2273.