Managing Medications For Aging Parents

The medicine cabinets of the elderly often begin to resemble a personal pharmacy. There are many prescriptions and medications they will need as they get older and their health starts to deteriorate. Some are lucky and may only take two or three pills a day, but other aging parents seem to have a never ending supply of medications to inest. The average elderly person takes at least five different pills a day. It can be difficult remembering which one to take when, which pill needs to be taken with food, which on an empty stomach. With some helpful organization tips, you can make it easier for your elderly parents.

First, both you and your parents needs to understand what medication they are taking and what it is used for. Learn the name, the dosage, frequency, and side effects. Get as much information from the doctor as possible. Always have complete medical records. Medical history should include any past surgeries, allergies, family health information, etc. A more complete history will make it easier for health care providers and will help keep you on track.

Carefully read all directions. Make a list or take notes, if necessary. Only dispense the recommended dosage and finish the entire prescription if instructed. Pay careful attention to the section of the information pamphlet that addresses what the pills should not be mixed with. Although you should have already done so, confirm that your parents' doctors are aware of any over the counter medication that they take such as antacids, laxatives, or pain killers. These too can interact with prescribed medicine and definitely not in a good way. They can either make you sick or counteract the medication all together.

Keep all drugs separate and monitor expiration dates. Drugs should never be mixed together in one container. Discard any medicines that have expired. Make sure to call for a refill a few weeks before the bottle is empty. Your elderly parents should only be using one pharmacy so that the pharmacist is aware of all the medication being taken and will know if any of them have dangerous interactions. Always carry with you a list of all the medications and dosages, just in case. It's easy to forget and it could save their lives if they are ever taken to the emergency room.

When taking medication, watch for any social or physical changes in your elderly parents. Some may just be the result of side effects while others can be more serious reactions. Either way, the doctor needs to be informed so he can make adjustments to the dosage.

For those with home health aides, detail them about all your medication. Give them a list as well so they can accurately help you take your pills.


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