Taking numerous medications unfortunately becomes a reality for most senior citizens, as three out of four people over the age of 65 are treated for multiple medical conditions. Medication mistakes can be very dangerous and even deadly, so it is of utmost importance that loved ones and caregivers of seniors do everything possible to manage and dispense these medications in a safe and organized way.
One of the most important medication safety for seniors tools is the creation of a comprehensive and up-to-date list of all medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and vitamins/supplements. This is essential both for keeping organized and aware of dosing, as well as maintaining clear channels of communication between the patient, caregivers, and medical providers.
Your medication list should include the full names of medications, the exact dosage and frequency, the name of the prescribing physician, and any allergies. This is a list that will require regular updating, whenever medication changes are made by the medical team. For best results, multiple copies of the complete list should be made. A copy should always remain in the patient’s wallet for consistent availability; a copy can be given to the doctor for the patient’s chart; copies should go to each family caregiver and professional caregiver; as well as a copy posted prominently on the refrigerator or family bulletin board — both for the patient’s easy access at home, as well as visible to paramedics, should they need to visit. Click here to access the comprehensive medication form that Eldercare Services has created for you to download, print, and use.
Once you have all medications and supplements listed in one place, the focus shifts to making sure that the medicines are taken correctly as scheduled. There are many types of resources to assist with this. There are several varieties and sizes of pill cases at local pharmacies and online shops that help with organizing medications, even some with electronic alarms built in. There are apps for smartphones such as Medisafe-Medication-Reminder that help alert when it’s time for medication, track the administration, and remind of dosages, including pictures of each pill. There is a web-based campaign called scriptyourfuture.org that will text medication reminders to your smartphone. Technology has made it easier than ever before to manage numerous medications and dosage frequencies without missing doses or making medication errors.
Other important tips to keep in mind when setting up a medication safety for seniors regiment:
- Use the same pharmacy for all your medications. This helps to ensure that a comprehensive list is created within the pharmacy database, and helps alert the pharmacist in case of any incompatible medication interactions.
- Talk to your pharmacist about whether it’s possible to schedule all refills at the same time each month. This can help streamline the time needed to sort medications into pill-holders at home, and can prevent running out of medication before realizing a refill is needed.
- At medical appointments, make sure to ask your doctor any questions about medications, including potential side effects. You should always understand why a medication is being taken, what condition it is treating, and how the medication best works (with food, at bedtime, etc.). Your pharmacist can be a valuable resource for this information as well. If the patient begins to have difficulty swallowing pills, this is an important piece of information to present to your medical team. There may be alternate forms of the medication, such as liquids or injectables, or certain pills can be safely crushed — but this requires consultation with your doctor.
- Find out from your doctor what to do if a dose is missed, and never double-up on a dosage without checking with your physician first. Additionally, you should never stop taking a medication without specifically speaking about it with your doctor. Some medications require a gradual tapering, and stopping abruptly can have potentially dangerous results.
- Agree on a safe and centrally located location for all pill bottles, as well as pill cases/organizers. Medications should be kept in a safe place, out of the way of children and guests. Medications should generally be kept away from heat, bright light, and moisture.
In addition to accessing our handy medication form, we encourage you to contact us at Eldercare Services if your senior needs assistance with managing their medication or other home health needs. Our professional care managers can arrange a complimentary assessment, to determine how we can help you best care for your loved one.