6 tips for Effective Medication Management for Seniors
As people age, they are more likely to take multiple medications for various chronic conditions. This can make it difficult to keep track of all the different pills, and seniors may often forget to take their medication or take the wrong dose. Medication errors can have serious consequences, such as an increased risk of falls, hospitalization, and even death. That’s why it’s so important for seniors to get help with managing their medications. Trained professional caregivers like our Genuine Global Care team can help seniors keep track of their pills and ensure that they’re taking the right medication at the right time which reduces the risk of medication errors and improve seniors’ overall health.
At Genuine Global Care, we’ve worked with seniors for a long time and know the challenges they face when managing medications on their own. This is why our caregivers are trained to help them ensure that their medications are being taken correctly. We’ve developed systems to all tasks related to medication management and our goal is to help our clients stay healthy and independent. We believe that proper medication management is a key part of this. If you’re taking care of an elderly loved one at home, here are 6 tips to help you in assisting them with their meds.
1. Make sure they have an up-to-date list of all their medications.
It’s important that your senior loved one has a list of all the medications they’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This list should be kept up-to-date in a clear and easy-to-read format. Consider printing a list in large font which you can place in a location they frequent such as the bathroom mirror.
Note that this list should also be given to all their healthcare providers as well to ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to their medication regimen.
2. Help them keep track of when to take their medications
Many seniors find it helpful to use a pill box or some other system to keep track of when they need to take their medications. You can help them set up this system and make sure it’s working properly. Pill boxes can be bought at most pharmacies or online and are one of the most effective ways to help seniors take their medications correctly.
3. Still on reminders… Create an alert system
If your loved one is forgetful, it may be helpful for you to set up automatic reminders, or to schedule to call them and remind them yourself. You can set up a reminders system using your smartphone or a simple kitchen timer.
4. Help them manage side effects
Some medications can cause unpleasant side effects like nausea, headaches, or fatigue. If your loved one is experiencing any of these, you can help them by doing research and finding ways to mitigate the side effects. If you notice that your loved one’s medications are no longer working as well as they used to or if they are having new and unexpected side effects, don’t hesitate to reach out to their doctor. It could be that the dosage needs to be adjusted or that they need to switch to a different medication altogether.
5. Make sure they are eating healthy and staying hydrated.
Proper nutrition is essential for seniors, especially those who are taking medications. Make sure your loved one is eating regular meals and drinking plenty of fluids. If they are having trouble preparing meals or getting to the grocery store, see if you can help out or find someone who can. At Genuine Global Care, our renowned Companionship Care service gives you peace of mind, knowing that your loved one has someone by their side to help with medication, meals, errands, and more.
6. Encourage them to stay active and social.
Although this may not sound like it’s related to medication management, It’s important for seniors to stay active both physically and mentally which may reduce the need of additional medications in future. Regular exercise can help improve their mood, memory, and overall health. Additionally, social interaction can help stave off depression and isolation. Try to encourage your loved one to get out and about, whether it’s going for a walk, attending a senior center, or joining a book club.
Let our team help you
Our team of caregivers are trained to help implement effective medication management for seniors, while ensuring their overall health and safety. There’s never been a better time to join the Genuine Global Care family. Contact us today at (531) 207-3545 if you’re in the Lincoln, NE area. If you’re in the Dallas metro area, we’re also ready to serve you at (214) 307-2321.
