As the years pass, many seniors find themselves taking various prescription medications that are necessary to manage their health. However, seniors might not always know what they’re taking—or why. Even though these medications can greatly enhance the quality of life, seniors need to know all they can about them, and they can gain that knowledge with the help of loved ones and companion care at home providers.
Understanding the Reason Behind Their Prescriptions
One of the first things that seniors should know is why they’re taking certain medications. Knowing the purpose of each prescription is the first step toward managing it. Loved ones can encourage them to request an explanation of why they’re taking certain medications. In some cases, knowing the “why” is reason enough for seniors to stick to their medicine routine.
Understanding the Timing
It’s also important for seniors to understand when they should take medications and at what dosage. Certain medications must be taken with meals, while others might need to be taken without eating. When seniors don’t have this information, they might combine certain prescriptions or over-the-counter supplements in ways that change their efficacy or cause negative side effects.
Loved ones can encourage seniors to ask their pharmacist or doctor about any medications that might cause issues when mixed or ones that should be removed altogether at each appointment.
Understanding Side Effects
All medications have the potential to cause side effects, and seniors may be more susceptible to them because of changes in organ function, metabolism, or something else. Fatigue, disorientation, and dizziness are common side effects that raise the possibility of falls or other mishaps. Companion care at home can help keep an eye out for seniors to ensure their safety, but seniors should also know what to look for and notify their medical team right away if they notice any new or strange symptoms.
Maintain a Current List of Medications
Seniors should keep an up-to-date record of all the medications they take, including over-the-counter, prescription, and dietary supplements. Included in this list should be the dosage, the frequency, and any further directions. Companion care at home can remind them to take the list with them to medical appointments and remind them to make necessary changes. Seniors might also consider using apps that can track the information for them so they’ll always have the information on hand.
Understanding Over-the-Counter Drugs
Despite being widely available, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs still carry some hazards. Many over-the-counter medications, including cold treatments, antihistamines, and pain relievers, can interact with prescription prescriptions. For instance, seniors who are currently on medication for kidney problems or high blood pressure may find that NSAIDs like ibuprofen exacerbate their condition. Before adding an OTC product to their routine, they need to talk with their medical team.
Understanding the Need for Consistency
Maintaining general health and controlling chronic diseases require taking prescription drugs as directed. Incorrect or missed dosages may result in problems or even hospital stays. Loved ones and companion care at home can talk to seniors about using pill organizers, alarms, or apps that help them remember to take their medications on time.
Seniors who use prescription drugs to manage their health can greatly benefit from understanding the “why” of what they’re taking, as well as the side effects, timing, dosage, and more. Both companion care at home and loved ones can help them with this to make sure they have all the information they need to stay healthy and safe.
Sources:https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/5-medication-safety-tips-older-adults
https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/common-medications-for-older-adults
https://www.healthinaging.org/medications-older-adults/what-older-adults-can-do-manage-medication
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home Services in Dover MA, please get in touch with the caring staff at Care Resolutions, Inc. today. (508) 906-5572
CARE Resolutions, Inc. provides quality 24-Hour Home Care for seniors and families in Walpole, Dover, Wellesley, Framingham, Norfolk, Quincy, Weston, Medfield, Boston, Sherborn MA, and surrounding areas.
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