by DR. JOY JACKSON
As seniors get older, the list of medications frequently gets longer in order to maintain health and well-being. But juggling multiple medications can be overwhelming. According to data from the National Health Survey in 2021-2022, 88.6% of seniors aged 65 or older took prescription medication. The Department of Health in Polk County would like to advise our senior residents on how to best manage their medications so that they can live a healthy and safe life.
Take Medications as Prescribed
One of the most important things for seniors to do is to follow medication schedules and dosages as prescribed by the medical provider. You can start by maintaining a written list of all the medications you take, including over-the-counter medications and supplements, along with the dosage and schedule for each medication, and regularly update it as it changes. Read all medicine labels and follow the instructions. Don’t take more or less than your prescribed dosage; take just what you are prescribed to take.
Take Medications on Time
It’s also crucial to take medications on time. As life gets busy, it’s difficult to remember to take multiple medications so you can use timers on your phone or write notes on calendars as reminders. Smartphones have medication reminder apps that could help remind you to take each medication at the prescribed dosage and at the right time of day. Weekly pill organizers have been very helpful for seniors who take multiple medications; there are pill organizers labeled by time and day.
Communication and Education Are Key
Talk to your medical providers and tell them about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. Review your current medication list with your medical providers, especially after hospital visits and medication changes. Give your full medical history to your medical providers so they can give you the optimal care you need with all the information available. Be honest when asked about alcohol, drug and tobacco use by your medical professionals; some medications can be less effective or even cause negative interactions when taken alongside these substances. Make sure your pharmacy has a record of all medications you’re taking. Try to fill all medications at the same pharmacy so that your pharmacist can also help protect you from drug interactions.
Ask medical providers about food recommendations and possible side effects when you start a new medication. Be aware of how medications affect your mind and body and inform your provider immediately if you experience problems. Some medications pose a high risk of side effects for seniors, such as cold and allergy medications and sleep-inducing medications, so consult with your provider first, even if it’s an over-the-counter medication.
Store Your Medications Safely
Medications should always be stored in a cool, dry place, so avoid keeping them in the bathroom. Keep medications out of the reach of children. To avoid taking the wrong pills, don’t take medications in the dark or when you’re overly distracted or tired. Don’t take other people’s medications and don’t share yours with others. Dispose of used or expired medications.
Caregivers and family members can play a vital role in medication management. They can help remind seniors of medication schedules, organize pills, spot side effects, and help communicate with medical providers. If you feel overwhelmed, ask a loved one for assistance.
Ultimately, proper medication management is about empowering seniors to be in control of their healthcare journey, so that they can live their best lives.
About the Author: Dr. Joy Jackson, an internal medicine physician, serves the community as director of the Florida Department of Health in Polk County (DOH-Polk). For more information about DOH-Polk, visit mypolkhealth.org. Follow DOH-Polk on Twitter at twitter.com/FLHealthPolk.