Thoughts on Medications and Your Older Parents
Posted by Laura Nelson on March 14, 2010
By Judy Flickinger, RN
As our parents, relatives, and friends age, medications are often prescribed. Whether it’s a simple vitamin or a vital high-blood pressure medication, sometimes older people are reluctant, or unable to, correctly take medications.
Elderly people can be at risk for many reasons:
– The aging body can be more susceptible to side effects of medication.
– The physical effect of aging, such as arthritis, can cause particular problems with getting medications out of childproof containers. Administering eye drops and using inhalers can be difficult with stiff, painful fingers.
– Forgetfulness can be a problem. Remembering what medications are for, or whether they’ve been taken that day, can become an issue.
– Failing eyesight can cause problems with reading small print labels and information leaflets.
– Elderly persons sometimes mistakenly take old or expired medications for an ailment or condition they no longer have. Deadly drug interactions and over-medication are among the primary reasons why caregivers are urged to check medication for elderly family members. Always dispose of medications no longer needed.
– Some elderly may think they feel better and discontinue treatment, or think it’s not working and stop–or double–the amount.
BrightStar Care offers a free assessment of care in the home. Care givers can monitor, and remind, people to take medications properly. It can be as simple as coaxing a patient to take medications; or a med-box can be set up for a week at a time to make pill-taking easier.
BrightStar Care offers home care to seniors, new mothers and patients recovering from surgery or illness. Companionship care, live-in caregivers, in-home blood draws, injections and personal services are available also.
To learn more about BrightStar home care, call (630) 260-5300. www.brightstarhealthcare.com/wheaton.
Tags:Health & Fitness, Seniors
