Medications are essential for the well-being of seniors. From cholesterol treatments to managing pain, missing medications can create health complications and endanger well-being. One of the trickiest parts of managing medication for seniors is making sure refills arrive on time. Late refills could put your loved one's well-being in danger. When there are multiple medications to track, though, it can quickly become confusing for the senior and their caregiver about what they need and when.
Our in-home care team helps families manage this crucial task for senior loved ones. We know how difficult this task can be, but we also know how to overcome the confusion and create a helpful medication-tracking system.
Here are some of our top tips to help ensure medication refills for seniors arrive on time each month.
Tips for Making Medication Refills for Seniors Arrive On Time
Create a Medication Schedule
Develop a medication schedule that includes the name of each medication, the dosage, as well as the time it should be taken. This will help you track when each medication needs to be refilled.
Use a Medication Reminder App
Consider using a medication reminder app to help you keep track of when medication refills are due. These apps can send notifications when it's time to refill a prescription, making it easier to stay on top of medication schedules.
Order Medications Online
Online pharmacies offer automated refill reminders and home delivery, making it easier to ensure seniors have their medications on time. This can help avoid missed doses, reduce the risk of complications, and provide peace of mind for seniors and their caregivers.
Keep a List of Medications
Keep a list of all medications your loved one is taking, including the name of the drug, dosage, and prescribing doctor. This can be helpful when refilling a prescription, as you'll have all the information you need in one place. You can also make notes about each medication to ask your senior loved one's doctor about at their next visit.
Check Prescription Expiration Dates
Check the expiration dates on prescription medications and order refills before they expire. Expired drugs can be dangerous, so stay on top of this. Talk to your pharmacist about the safest way to dispose of expired medication, as it may be unsafe to throw it away in the trash.
Plan Ahead
Don't wait until the last minute to order medication refills. Plan ahead and order refills to ensure that medications arrive on time. Write dates of refills on a calendar for easy reference.
Need Help Monitoring Medication Refills?
Managing the complex responsibilities of caring for senior parents can be challenging. But by following these tips, you can help ensure that medication refills for seniors arrive on time and your loved one stays on track with their medication schedule.
We have more ways to help alleviate the stress and worry of caring for a senior loved one! If you live in Lake St. Louis, Bowling Green, or Warrenton, call the team at Senior Helpers Lake St. Louis. We offer in-home care services that make caring for a senior easier.