Part 2 – Medication for Seniors: 6 Ways to Solve Medication Problems
In our previous post, we discussed 6 common medication problems in seniors. Although complications may arise during an older adult’s medication journey, it is possible to navigate toward improvements and positive changes.
So what solutions are there? Here are 6 ways to help seniors tackle their medication problems:
1. Check the ‘Beers List’
The ‘Beers List’, or also known as the AGS Beers Criteria, is a list of medications that are considered inappropriate for older adults. This list accounts how older bodies process medications differently and the effects of drugs on seniors’ health conditions. Checking the ‘Beers List’ helps doctors and caregivers be aware of potential side effects that may befall on older patients.
2. Make a list of all medications
Keep a full list of all medications, vitamins and supplements being taken by the senior, and record the reason for and expected results in taking them. This will help the older adult and the caregiver to understand why the medications are needed and if they are ever effective in the elder’s health journey.
Also, consult with the doctor if the current dosage or the type of medication is the best suited for the health condition of the senior. They could consider altering the doses or suggesting non-drug alternatives to support the elder.
3. Be aware of medicine interactions
Provide the doctor or pharmacist the complete list of medications the senior is currently taking, and ask if there may be potential interactions. Follow their advice and recommendations thereafter. Until then, do not stop the medication or change doses on your own, as this could lead to undesired side effects.
4. Receive help with costs
If you or your elder are struggling with the costs of medication, explore ways to lower the cost. You can consult with the doctor to identify medicines that are not effective and therefore can be eliminated from the intake regime. Also, you can seek an assessment for government subsidy and see if the costs can be covered by Medicare.
If you would like to find out more about this, contact us and we will help you find the best way to support your seniors.
5. Simplify medication schedules
Managing multiple medications and keeping up with their intake schedule can be difficult. If your older adult’s medication schedule is getting too complex to manage, ask the doctor or pharmacist for help to simplify the routine.
6. Keep the doctor up-to-date
Monitor the effects of drugs on your elder and let the doctor know what is going on. As a person staying right beside the senior, you will have a better insight on what is working for your elder or not. So give the doctor a run down of observations or concerns you have identified over a period. This can help the health professional make an informed decision that can greatly benefit the older adult.
Helping your loved ones and taking care of them go through challenges can be overbearing at times.
If you need help and assistance in fulfilling an enjoyable life for both you and your older adult, consult with Living Waters Aged Care now.
