4 Medication Management Tips for Seniors
As individuals age, the need for medication may increase.
As individuals age, the need for medication may increase. Due to varying health concerns or illnesses, some seniors may find themselves needing to evaluate their medication management, especially when multiple medicines are concerned. Everything so far in life has been a learning experience, and the following medication management tips for seniors can be viewed in a similar way. Read on to discover how these four tips can help you or your loved one manage their medication plan better.
1. Double-Check Your Specific Medications for Any Drug Interactions
All medication is medication, whether it is prescribed or is over the counter. Because some medicines need to be taken regularly (and some might be occasional or as needed), it is still important to speak with a doctor or pharmacist about all possible medication interactions. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) also reminds individuals to consider their medication regimen and how the addition of alcohol might affect their health and to be up-front with their doctor about all medications that are being taken.
2. Keep All Medicines In One Location and Have Them Labeled
By keeping all medicines in one location (except for anything that has special storage requirements, such as refrigeration), you decrease the chance of losing any important and potentially life-sustaining meds. At the same time, it can seem a bit overwhelming to have everything in one place, which is why it’s important to have a medication plan next to the storage location.
In this plan, the following should be outlined:
3. Organize Medicines in Advance
Pre-sorting medications for a week at a time is a great way to help seniors stay organized. This is a very important medication management tip for seniors because it allows them to have a habitual relationship with their medication and decreases potential confusion. Having a pill organizer aims to support their routine and stay on top of their important daily medications. Having clear instructions along with the pill organizer is a good idea so they can review what they are taking and when they’re supposed to do so.
4. Set Up a Tracking and Monitoring System for Medications
Because there might be multiple pills they need to take each day, implementing reminders and setting up a tracking system can give both the senior and caregiver a clear look at what is taken and when. The simplest way to do this is with pen and paper, and a chart form provides a clear visual. After the individual takes their pre-sorted medication, they can mark each off on the chart. This is also important to do for vitamins and supplements so they know they’ve already had it. It decreases any risk of overdosing.
Solterra Senior Living offers communities that support the lifestyles of independent living and assisted care. Our qualified and certified caregivers are there to support each resident with their individual needs and medication management. Call us today to discover the closest Solterra Senior Living Community to you.