Taking medications can start out as a simple task. Unfortunately, as we age, these medications can increase, and soon, your loved one may find themselves taking multiple medications. This can cause confusion, and an individual may accidentally take too much of one medication or miss out on a pill entirely.
Some medications need to be taken once a day, while others are administered twice. Others may need to be taken with food, water, or even on an empty stomach. Managing all of these different prescriptions and ensuring they are being taken properly can cause unnecessary stress. Thankfully, there are helpful strategies available that can lower this stress and help ensure your loved one is receiving the proper medications at the right times.
Utilizing Pill Boxes or Organizers
One of the best ways of keeping medications organized and ensuring your loved one takes them at the correct time with the necessary dosages is by using pill boxes or plastic organizers. You can find these at most drugstores.
It can be helpful to fill organizers out two to four weeks in advance to make sure your senior loved one stays current with their daily routine and reduces the stress often felt when it comes to the management of their medications. Setting alarms or reminders on their smartphones or tablets can also help ensure they take the proper medications at the right times.
Dedicate a Space for Medications
It can also be essential to dedicate a specific part of your loved one’s home to their medications, such as a bathroom or kitchen cabinet or kitchen countertop space. Keep a log of all medications or a checklist to help your loved one track their medication intake. This can help both you and your loved one feel confident that the right medications were taken at the correct times.
Understanding Dosages
It is important to remember that dosages are subject to change, especially as we age or our health conditions change. It is important that any medication log you keep is updated to accurately reflect these changes.
Speak to a Healthcare Provider
It is important that your senior loved one stay in contact with their healthcare provider regarding all prescribed medications and vitamins they may take. Several medications have the risk of interacting with others or interacting with certain foods. It is important that you and your loved one are aware of these potential interactions so that you can work to avoid them.
It is vital that your loved one speak with their doctor regarding the usage of NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, sleep aids, CBD or THC, alcohol, vitamins and minerals, supplements, and tobacco, as these all run the risk of interacting with medications and can cause serious side effects.
Let Marquette Home Care Help You Manage Medication
At Marquette Home Care, we are happy to assist in several ways when it comes to managing your loved one’s medications. Our team is here to help manage medication refills, coordinate prescriptions and refills with the doctor’s office and pharmacy, help set up new medications, and fill your loved one’s medications on a weekly basis. We help clients across the greater Marquette area, including Ishpeming, Negaunee, Harvey, Skandia, and Gwinn. If you have questions regarding the medication management of your senior loved one, contact us today at 906-361-8022.
