In order to have longer and healthier lives, many older adults use medications. However, as you probably know, they only have effect if they are used correctly. Different drugs have different purposes. But, what they have in common is that they need to be used according to a doctor’s instructions. Unfortunately, many seniors have issues with medication management.
At a certain age, the use of medication increases, and with many medicines come many directions. Seniors can lose track of what pills they should take at what time. What’s even scarier – they sometimes lose track of the right dosage, which can be lethal. But, thankfully, you or a hired caregiver can help with medication management. Here is how.
Request Larger Print
Most elderly have trouble reading the fine print on prescriptions. So, whenever they take a new medicine from the pharmacy, they should ask for a larger print. This will make it a lot easier for them to follow a medication plan.
Pre-Sort Pills Into Daily Medication Dispensers
By using a medication dispenser, you can easily organize the drugs for your elderly by each day of the week. Medication dispensers are available in every pharmacy or even in general stores – ideal for managing pills. These dispensers are literally labeled day by day, and that makes it easier for elderly to take the right ones at the right times.
Throw Away Expired Drugs
It is essential for you or your hired caregiver, skilled nurse, or aide to check the expiration dates of all medications in your house. Some of the expired drugs are not harmful, but might not have any effect – which can be worse. They won’t change the state of your loved one for better or worse. That’s why you should throw out expired medications and replace them with up-to-date variants.
Understand Medication Storage for Better Medication Management
Most seniors keep their medications in the bathroom or in the kitchen, where they are easily accessible. This might be harmful to drugs because these two rooms often fluctuate in temperature and humidity. The best place to keep your medications is in the bedroom or another room with lower moisture and stable heat.
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