Medication management has been and continues to be an important issue for the elderly. A study conducted by Seymour and Eli Ehrenpreis, authors of The Prescription and Over-the-Counter Drug Guide for Seniors, revealed that 14% of the US population is over 65. Since the average senior over 65 takes 5 prescription, that 14% is responsible for consuming over one-third of prescription medications. With the influx of baby boomers now entering their golden years those numbers are expected to grow.
While seniors are not the only member of the population on prescription meds, they face several unique challenges in regards to managing them properly. Let’s take a look at a few common issues and what can be done to minimize the danger.
Side Effects and Interactions
Anyone on prescription medications needs to be aware of potential side effects. However, these tend to be more intensified in the senior population (HealthInAging.org). As we age, our bodies are less able to metabolize drugs and supplements. These products can build up in the system, increasing the effects of the medication. This can be intensified when a person has multiple conditions. For example, a prescription may have a side effect that impacts memory. If they are already on another medicine to improve memory but it gets worse, the doctor may up the dose, which increases the chance of negative side effects from the memory prescription.
Taking multiple medications, as many older adults do, also can cause negative interactions between the drugs. A medication interaction could make its intended effect stronger or weaker, or cause unexpected problems. Doctors and pharmacists are aware of potential interactions between medications and will do their best not to prescribe any that might conflict. That is one reason why it is so important to keep your doctors informed of all prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medications you take.
Storage and Schedules
Does a supplement need to be refrigerated? Taken with food or on an empty stomach? As needed? Three times daily? At least an hour apart from every other medication? Do you need measuring or dispensing tools? Should you rinse your mouth after taking it?
Every medication comes with its own set of instructions. They must be stored properly, taken at the right times and in the proper dosage. They also all look similar and have names no one can pronounce. Keeping track of it all can be overwhelming.
Medication management can be even more difficult for the elderly because many of them struggle with memory issues. Recent statistics from the Alzheimer’s Association show that 1/3 seniors have Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia. While Dementia is not a normal part of aging, the overwhelming majority of seniors will start to experience mental decline as they age. Even Mild Cognitive Impairment can make managing medications independently dangerous. A senior with Dementia or MCI might accidentally overdose or forget to take their meds.
Many people use pill sorting containers with compartments for each day of the week and several time periods each day. Others write the schedule down or even ask their phones to notify them whenever it is time to take a certain medication.
Licensed Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly are great options for folks needing assistance with medication management. Each licensed home is able to provide services, and the state provides strict regulations for the distribution of meds. For more information on Licensed Board & Cares and Assisted Living Communities, contact Care Placement at (619) 660-8814. Our specialists will help you find the right home or community for your loved one, and our services are free.