A current research study of more than 2,000 older adults finds that a stunning 87% take a minimum of one prescription drug, 36% take five or more, and as many as 38% use over-the-counter meds frequently. As a result, managing medication for seniors can be very difficult, and many risks and dangers can come about during the process.
As specialists in-home care assistance in Philadelphia, our caregiving team assists older adults in making sure meds are taken when and exactly how they are prescribed. It is also imperative to understand common issues seniors encounter concerning prescriptions and how to conquer them.
For instance:
Occasionally, signs or symptoms continue despite taking medications correctly. Busy physicians may prescribe what is known as a “starter dose” of medicine, which calls for a follow-up to decide if an adjustment is required, but often, that follow-up never occurs. Schedule a subsequent visit with the doctor when a new medication is prescribed, and ensure the senior keeps that visit.
Side effects may be even more severe than the condition being treated. Of specific concern are medications that impact a senior’s balance and thinking – escalating the chance of a fall or other high-risk consequences. Drugs to be vigilant about include anticholinergics, sedatives/tranquilizers, benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and opiates. Speak with the doctor if any medications are prescribed for an older family member and cautiously weigh the possible risks against the benefits.
Staying compliant with medication adherence may be a challenge. For example, they remembered that one specific med must be taken with food. At the same time, another on an empty stomach, another with a full glass of water, one before breakfast and two at bedtime, can make it enormously challenging to take prescriptions exactly when and how they’re prescribed. Engage the services of a home care agency, like Atlanta Home Care Partners, for medication reminders.
Cost may be prohibitive. When the price for a specific medicine is high, older adults may be inclined to reduce their dosage amounts to conserve cost – a dangerous behavior. Older adults can instead speak with their physicians about generic versions of medications or other methods to keep costs minimum.
Be informed about likely interactions with other meds. Bring a complete list of all the medications the senior is talking to a physician or pharmacist with training in polypharmacy, who can make sure the drugs can safely be taken in conjunction with one another. Make sure to include any over-the-counter medications taken routinely as well. For a quick online evaluation, this drug interaction checker lets you enter all of a senior’s drugs and view any concerns that can then be discussed with their physician.
Contact Modern Health Home Care at 215.995.2012 for more senior medicine management tips, professional hands-on assistance with medication reminders, and more to help seniors stay healthy and safe.
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