Senior Assistance: 7 Tips for Safe Medication Use

If used properly, over-the-counter and prescription medications can keep you healthy. Many senior patients take several different medications daily. Sometimes, prescriptions are from multiple physicians, making an elder in home vulnerable to side effects, or even accidental poisonings. So how do we provide senior assistance in regards to medication safety? Many pharmacies are now using automated systems for filling prescriptions. An automated system can warn a senior of a potentially dangerous drug interaction. In addition, following The 7 Tips for Safe Medication Use is a proactive approach to medication safety among seniors.

1.    Learn about your medications. Read the labels and package inserts and follow the instructions for use. Ask your doctor if you have any questions or if you don't understand.
2.    Be sure to speak with all of your doctors about your medical conditions, any health concerns and be sure to inform them of all the medications you take. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter and herbal medications, vitamins and supplements. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
3.    Keep track of any side effects and inform your doctor immediately if your symptoms change.
4.    Keep all scheduled appointments with your doctors, including appointments for blood work or other monitoring tests.
5.    Use a pill box, calendar, or writing tablet to keep track of what medications to take and when to take them. Also write down information that your doctor gives you about your medications.
6.    Take someone such as a friend or relative along with you to doctor appointments if you think you may need help remembering doctor instructions.
7.    Have a "Medication Check-Up" at least once per year. Go through the cabinet(s) where you keep medications. Throw away old or expired medications. Review with your doctor all the medications you currently take, including over-the-counter or herbal medications.
8.    Keep all medications out of sight and reach of children or other elderly in home that has dementia.