As senior loved ones depend more on medications and treatments, their families must understand the risks of not taking medication on schedule and in the correct dosages. Families need to understand possible barriers that seniors face and seek assistance with medication management to help with health strategy implementation.
Certain issues like lack of funds or transportation to the doctor may prevent seniors from following through on a scheduled prescription routine. Additionally, mental acuity deterioration can cause problems in keeping track of medications and remembering to take them at the right time.
Unfortunately, seniors often live at home with a limited family or social circle to turn to for help. Their isolation can lead to their health slowly deteriorating due to forgetting to take medication. This can lead to long-term effects that detract from the quality of life in old age.
Understanding the signs of poor medication management in seniors is essential so families can provide assistance when needed. Here's what to look for, what you can do to manage meds better, and where to turn when you need more help.
Remember, this article provides general information only and should not be taken as personal medical advice since everyone's situation is unique. Always consult with your own physician before making any changes in your healthcare approach.
Potential Signs of Poor Medication Mismanagement in Seniors
Failing to take their medication as prescribed may lead seniors to take more than the recommended amount. They may also forget to take their medication and take less than their doctor-recommended dosage.
You can watch for signs that they aren't taking enough medication. These signs include having more medication on hand than expected or not needing refills as often.
There are also signs that they may be taking too much medicine. Often, an excessive amount of medications can lead to side effects, including:
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Unexpected weight loss or gain
- Changes in moods or personality
- Dry mouth or chronic thirst
How to Help Senior Family Members Get the Right Meds
Solving these symptoms requires family members to help set up a comprehensive system for taking and tracking medications.
The family and caregivers should work together to establish a medication schedule. You can use an app or set alarms to remind seniors to take their pills. Put written reminders in prominent places, too, like on kitchen cabinets or near their favorite chair.
Create an updated list of all the medications the senior is taking and leave it in an easily accessible spot. This will help everyone be on the same page about what drugs are being taken, their dosages, and any side effects to be aware of. Make notes next to each drug about questions to ask at future doctor appointments.
What to do When You Can't Monitor Medications Yourself
When the workload for managing senior relatives becomes too much, extra help should be considered. Hiring in-home care providers from a reliable and compassionate caregiver agency like Senior Helpers LaGrange can provide safety and peace of mind. In-home caregivers can help with medication management for seniors as well as other needs.
Families should also communicate with their senior loved one's doctor about any difficulties or side effects. The doctor may be able to recommend alternative treatments or smaller dosages. They can also monitor progress regularly to ensure the medications are working correctly.
If you are in the LaGrange, Columbus, West Point, or Pine Mountain area and looking for help caring for a senior family member, Senior Helpers is here to help. Our teams provide solutions that match your individual needs. Contact us today!