The management of ones health and the effective administration of medications are
fundamental components of maintaining well-being as individuals advance in age. It is
not uncommon for seniors to contend with multiple medical conditions, necessitating
the intake of various medications at different intervals throughout the day. However, the
task of tracking medication schedules can prove to be quite challenging, and mistakes
such as forgetting to take medications or inadvertently taking excessive amounts can
result in serious health repercussions, including hospitalizations or worse outcomes.
At Mercy Hearts Health, we recognize the significance of proper medication
management for seniors, and we are dedicated to providing support and guidance to
facilitate this process for you or your loved ones. Below are several constructive and
supportive recommendations to assist with medication management:
1. Ensure Medication Availability: Maintain an adequate supply of all essential
medications at home by diligently monitoring prescriptions and refills. Prior to your
next medical appointment, check which prescriptions are nearing depletion and arrange
for refills in advance to prevent any disruptions in your medication regimen.
2. Dispose of Old Medications: Safely discard expired or unnecessary medications to
avert accidental ingestion. Store all medications in a designated, easily accessible
location to assist in tracking what is available and to ensure safety, particularly if
children or pets are present in the household.
3. Maintain a Medication List: Develop and routinely update a comprehensive list of
all medications, including dosages and schedules. This list not only aids the individual
taking the medications but also serves as a valuable reference for caregivers and
healthcare providers.
4. Set Reminders: Utilize alarms or reminder applications on your mobile device or
smartwatch to signal when it is time to take medications. Consistent reminders can be
an effective strategy for ensuring adherence to the medication regimen.
5. Organize with a Pillbox: Employ a pillbox to systematically arrange your daily
medications, simplifying the process of monitoring what is to be taken each day.
Consider using a pillbox with distinct compartments for morning and evening doses,
particularly if you have a complicated medication schedule.
6. Consider Webster Packs: Consult your pharmacist regarding Webster packs,
which organize medications into daily blister packs. This approach can streamline the
process of taking the appropriate medications at the designated times, especially for
individuals managing multiple prescriptions.
It is essential to remember that effective medication management is vital for sustaining
one’s health and overall well-being. Should you or your loved one encounter difficulties
in managing medications independently, seeking further assistance from a Care
Professional may be advantageous. Mercy hearts health provides personalized home
care support to ensure that medications are taken accurately.
