Keeping seniors' medications safe and out of reach from curious youngsters is a critical responsibility, especially in households where the young and old cohabit. Unsecured medications can lead to serious dangers, including a high risk of poisoning. This April, Medication Safety Month, it's important to bring awareness to how we can prevent accidents and ensure the health and safety of all family members.
The Dangers of Unsecured Medications
No matter how benign or commonplace they seem, medications pose serious risks when they fall into the wrong hands. Children, with their natural curiosity, are particularly at risk. They may mistake pills for candy or simply not understand the dangers of ingesting these substances. In fact, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, around 68,000 children end up in emergency rooms each year due to accidental medication poisoning. It's a looming hazard that needs prompt action.
Best Practices for Keeping Medications Safe
Creating a secure environment for medications requires a multifaceted approach.
Store Medications Properly
Storing medicines in locked cabinets or high shelves can provide a strong physical barrier against access. In households with curious children who are more likely to climb or get into things they shouldn't, family members may want to consider further barriers. For example, some families may want to lock up dangerous medications.
Education
Educating children about the dangers of consuming someone else's medication is crucial to keeping them safe. Explain that these are not sweets but substances only to be taken under adult supervision and only by the person they are prescribed for. Make sure that children understand age-appropriate dangers related to taking medications that do not belong to them.
Tracking Medication
Keeping track of medication schedules is another important aspect of safety. This ensures that the senior does not accidentally miss a dose or ingest a double dose – both of which can have serious health implications. Not only that, tracking medication consumption can make it easier to determine whether a child may have gotten into the medications–and allow caregivers to tell hospital or Poison Control staff how much a child may have consumed.
Minimizing the Risk of Accidental Consumption or Access
A few simple strategies can significantly reduce the risk of accidental consumption. Consider investing in childproof containers—these can provide an additional layer of security. Ensure all medications are clearly labeled and organized. This helps prevent confusion and reduces the chance of taking the wrong medication.
Finally, a plan should be put in place in case of accidental consumption. Keep emergency contact numbers readily available, and be sure to inform them immediately if you suspect a child has consumed a medication. Fast action can prevent serious harm and even save lives.
Let Us Help Your Senior Loved Ones
At Senior Helpers San Antonio, we provide a variety of home care services, including help with medication management. If you live in San Antonio, New Braunfels, Boerne, Cibolo, or Canyon Lake, contact us to learn more about how we can help your senior loved one maintain quality of life.