There is a correlation between aging and the likelihood of taking medicines on a regular basis for most people. The Merck manual acknowledges the importance of drugs as the most common medical intervention without which older people would function less or die early.
It is, therefore, important to have an effective and efficient plan for taking medicines which are prescribed. For homecare, your nurse will help set up your medicine. Your home Health Aide however is not qualified to help you with your medications. Questions regarding medication should always be addressed to the nurse.
How to Stay Organized
Sources:
http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/older-people-s-health-issues/aging-and-drugs/aging-and-drugs
http://www.eldercare.gov/eldercare.net/public/Resources/Brochures/docs/EldercareMedicareBrochure.pdf
http://www.everydayhealth.com/senior-health-pictures/tips-for-managing-medications.aspx#01
It is, therefore, important to have an effective and efficient plan for taking medicines which are prescribed. For homecare, your nurse will help set up your medicine. Your home Health Aide however is not qualified to help you with your medications. Questions regarding medication should always be addressed to the nurse.
How to Stay Organized
- Don't Take a Day Off: If you can not get to your medication, ask for help to ensure that everyday you are taking your pills per your doctor's order.
- Take your pills at the same time: Create a routine so that taking your medication becomes second nature
- Educate: Learn about side effects and dosage.
- Use a pill dispenser: You may find that using a pill dispenser is very helpful.
Sources:
http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/older-people-s-health-issues/aging-and-drugs/aging-and-drugs
http://www.eldercare.gov/eldercare.net/public/Resources/Brochures/docs/EldercareMedicareBrochure.pdf
http://www.everydayhealth.com/senior-health-pictures/tips-for-managing-medications.aspx#01