Medication Adherence: Tips for Supporting Your Loved One
Introduction
Medication adherence refers to the ability of an individual to take their prescribed medications on time and in the correct dosage. For elderly individuals, medication adherence can be especially challenging due to memory problems and complex medication regimes. As a caretaker or family member of an elderly person, it is important to support medication adherence. In this article, we will discuss tips for supporting your loved one with medication adherence.
Understanding Medication Adherence
What is Medication Adherence?
Medication adherence refers to the extent to which a patient takes their medication as prescribed by the healthcare provider. This includes taking the correct dose, at the right time and in the right way. It is important to understand that medication adherence is not just about taking the medication; it also involves following other instructions such as taking the medication with food or not eating certain foods with the medication.
Challenges of Medication Adherence in Elderly People
Elderly individuals often have more complex medical conditions and, therefore, require more medication. Memory problems, difficulty reading labels or instructions, limited vision or hearing loss can make it difficult for elderly individuals to take their medication as prescribed. Additionally, medication side effects, cost, and lack of transportation to pharmacies can also contribute to medication non-adherence in elderly people.
Strategies for Supporting Medication Adherence
Create a Medication Schedule
Creating a medication schedule can help the elderly person keep track of their medications. You can create a chart that outlines all the medications, doses, and the times they need to be taken. This will help them take their medications on time and reduce the likelihood of missing a dose. You can also use medication reminder apps that can send notifications to their phones when it is time to take medication.
Simplify Medication Regimens
Sometimes, the complexity of medication regimens can be overwhelming for elderly individuals. Simplifying the medication regimen by reducing the number of medications or dosages can help in improving medication adherence. This can be done by working with the healthcare provider to discuss any potential medication interactions or combining medications into one pill if possible.
Use Pill Organizers or Blister Packs
Pill organizers or blister packs can help elderly individuals keep track of their medications. They can fill the boxes at the start of the week or month, which reduces the likelihood of missed or skipped doses. You can also help by filling the boxes for them if they are unable to do it themselves.
Provide Transportation to Pharmacies
Transportation can be a significant barrier in medication adherence for elderly individuals. You can offer to take the elderly person to the pharmacy when their medications need to be refilled. This can also provide an opportunity to review any new medications or changes to medication regimens with the pharmacist.
Discuss Medication Side Effects
Side effects from medication can contribute to non-adherence. Discussing potential side effects and monitoring for side effects can help prevent discontinuation of medications. Encourage the elderly person to report any side effects to their healthcare provider.
Engage in Patient Education
Engaging in patient education can help the elderly person understand the importance of medication adherence and the potential consequences of non-adherence. This education can include teaching them to read medication labels and instructions, and using aids such as magnifying glasses if needed. You can also advocate for the elderly person during healthcare provider visits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, medication adherence is crucial to maintain good health and well-being for elderly individuals. As a caretaker or family member, supporting medication adherence is essential to improve health outcomes and quality of life. By following the tips outlined in this article such as creating a medication schedule, simplifying medication regimens, using pill organizers, providing transportation, discussing side effects, and engaging in patient education, you can support your loved one's medication adherence and improve their overall health.