As we age, our memory can become more difficult to rely on. Medication management for seniors can become increasingly challenging. It is not unusual for older adults to require assistance from others with administering or managing their medications.
Family members may try to help, yet they may not have the experience necessary to appropriately handle a senior's unique needs. Here are some suggestions about how to manage your senior loved one's medications and how our team may be able to help.
Reasons Why Seniors May Need Assistance With Medication Management
Managing medications can be challenging for many seniors, especially if they take multiple medications or have cognitive or physical impairments that make it challenging to keep track of their medications. Here are some signs that seniors may need assistance with medication management:
- Forgetting to take medications or taking them at the wrong time. If your senior relative consistently misses doses or takes medications at the wrong time, it may be time to step in and help.
- Confusion about medication instructions. If a senior is having trouble understanding medication instructions or is unsure when or how to take medication, this may indicate that they need assistance with medication management.
- Difficulty opening pill bottles or packaging. This can be especially difficult for seniors with arthritis or other conditions that affect hand strength or dexterity.
- Unintended medication interactions or side effects. Certain medications can interact with each other, and seniors may be at a higher risk for adverse drug reactions.
- Disorganized medication storage. Medications should be stored in a cool, dry place, and keeping track of expiration dates is essential to ensure that medications are still effective.
Options for Assisting Seniors With Medication Management
There are several options available for assisting seniors with medication management. Here are some suggestions:
Use Medication Management Tools
Various medication management tools can help seniors keep track of their medications, such as pill organizers, medication reminders, and automatic pill dispensers. These tools can also help ensure that medications are taken on time and in the correct dosage.
Set Up a Medication Schedule
Create a schedule outlining when each medication should be taken and its dosage. This can be a paper schedule or an electronic one, such as a smartphone app or a digital calendar. Make sure that the plan is easy to read and understand.
Hire a Caregiver
A caregiver can manage medication by helping seniors organize and take their medications. This can be especially helpful if seniors have mobility issues or memory impairments. Caregivers can also help seniors with other activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation.
Utilize Pharmacy Services
Many pharmacies offer medication management services, such as pill packaging and delivery. These services can be helpful for seniors who have trouble picking up their medications or organizing them at home.
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
Healthcare providers, such as doctors and pharmacists, can provide valuable guidance on medication management for seniors. They can help them understand their medications and any potential side effects or interactions as well as offer advice on managing their medications effectively.
Find a medication management solution best suited to your senior relative's needs and circumstances. Be sure to involve them in decision-making and seek professional advice as needed.
Do You Need Helping Caring for a Senior Loved One?
When in doubt, consult a qualified physician or healthcare provider. They can provide sound advice regarding medication management for elderly individuals. We're here to help, too! Senior Helpers Las Vegas serves seniors in Las Vegas, Henderson, Laughlin, Pahrump, Indian Springs, and Boulder City. Contact us today to learn more about our in-home care services and how we can help your senior loved one age in place.
Articles published through Senior Helpers Las Vegas are meant for informational purposes only. This article does not serve as personal medical consultation, and we recommend consulting your doctor before relying on content from a third party.