If your loved one is taking several prescription drugs, properly managing them and following basic rules is essential for their safety. Mismanagement can lead to hospitalization and even death. It can seem daunting at first, but by following these simple strategies, they will have a much easier time managing their medication.
Make a List: Have them maintain a list of all the medications they currently take, along with the dosage, the time to take and whether or not it is supposed to be taken with food. There are printable templates you can find online to help stay organized. Keep the list next to where the medications are stored, and perhaps a spare list that can be kept in a wallet or purse.
Communicate with your Doctor and Pharmacist: Keep an open dialogue with both parties and never be afraid to ask questions. Always have your loved one review their medication history with their doctor to see if there is any new information about the drugs that is relevant to their situation. You can also ask your pharmacist for written instructions on how to take the medication, as well as a bigger container with larger font.
Reduce the number of Providers and Pharmacists: Only get the medication from one pharmacy, as they will be more knowledgeable about the current prescriptions being taken and can alert you your senior if the dosage should be changed or the mix of drugs won’t interact well. Good communication between their primary care provider and pharmacist is essential, so the fewer parties involved, the better.
Research how Medication effects Elderly: Elderly patients can sometimes react differently to a prescribed medicine than people in their middle ages. Sometimes the side effects are more intense, other times the medication is just less effective. Research the drug online and see if there is any record of complications in older patients.
