Home Care Assistance – Things Seniors Should Do To Prevent Accidental Medication Overdoses
Seniors need to be careful when they are taking their medications. Often seniors take multiple medications daily, and making sure they take all of those medications properly can be confusing. Accidental medication overdoses are on the rise among seniors and the results of an accidental overdose can be deadly.
Home care assistance is strongly recommended for seniors that are aging at home. With home care assistance seniors are better able to manage their medications and make sure that they aren’t taking too much of their medications.
In addition to getting home care assistance seniors can do these things to help lower the risk of an accidental medication overdose at home:
Maintain an Updated Medication List
Seniors should keep an updated and comprehensive list of all the medications they take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins, and supplements. This list should include the medication name, dosage, frequency, and purpose. A home care provider can help seniors make and keep up a medication list.
Communicate with Healthcare Providers
Regularly consult with healthcare providers, including physicians, pharmacists, and specialists, about medication regimens. Seniors should inform their healthcare team of all medications they are taking, including any changes or additions.
Use One Pharmacy
Whenever possible, seniors should fill all prescriptions at a single pharmacy. This allows pharmacists to cross-check medications for potential drug interactions and provide personalized guidance. Home care providers can help seniors get refills and make sure their medications don’t run out.
Read Medication Labels
Seniors should read medication labels carefully, paying attention to dosing instructions, warnings, and potential side effects. They should follow the prescribed dosage and administration schedule exactly as instructed.
Use Medication Organizers
Pill organizers, such as daily or weekly pill boxes, can help seniors keep track of their medications. These organizers can be filled at the beginning of each week to ensure doses are not missed. Home care assistance can fill these weekly or monthly dose containers to help seniors avoid taking too much of their medication.
Ask Questions
If seniors have any questions or doubts about their medications, they should not hesitate to ask their healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification. This includes asking about potential interactions with other medications or foods. Don’t be afraid to ask the pharmacist or doctor questions. And if questions come up seniors can contact a nurse help line or call their doctor’s office.
Avoid Sharing Medications
Medications prescribed to one person may not be suitable for another. Seniors should never share their medications with family members or friends, and they should only take medications that have been specifically prescribed to them.
Use Proper Storage
Medications should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Seniors should follow storage instructions provided with each medication to maintain their effectiveness.
Dispose of Expired Medications
Seniors should regularly check their medication supply for expired or discontinued medications. Expired medications should be properly disposed of following recommended guidelines, which often include using a medication take-back program or a designated disposal container.
Don’t Change The Dose
Seniors should never change the dosage or stop taking medication without consulting their healthcare provider. Adjusting medication without medical guidance can lead to uncontrolled health conditions or adverse reactions.
Be Cautious with OTC Medications
Over-the-counter medications, including pain relievers, antacids, and cold remedies, can interact with prescription medications. Seniors should consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist before using OTC medications, especially if they are taking multiple prescriptions.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care assistance in Evanston, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.
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