While family caregivers have many responsibilities, it’s important for them to stay organized when it comes to medications. Proper medication organization can ensure the health of the senior loved one under your care, prevent potential health problems, and promote overall safety. If you’re not sure where to begin, here are a few practical medication safety tips that are easy to implement.
Fill the Pill Organizer Yourself
Many family caregivers make use of pill organizers that allow them to organize each day’s prescribed medications. The best way to eliminate confusion with a pill organizer is to make sure the same person fills it around the same time each week. This can eliminate confusion and ensure the proper medications in the correct dosages are included.
Keep a List of Medications
Keep a list of all the medications your loved one is taking, both current and past, with information about each medication’s recommended dosages and side effects. Add the reason for the medication and the name of the prescribing physician. Eliminate any medications discontinued by the physician and see if any of the existing medicines need refilling.
A list can help you stay organized, avoiding medication mix-ups and potentially dangerous medication interactions. The list should be continually updated, and a copy should be carried with you at all times in case of an emergency.
Learn about the Side Effects
Educate yourself about the side effects each medicine might cause. If you notice changes in your loved one’s health that may be the result of side effects, notify the physician. If a medication doesn’t seem to be addressing the medical condition it was prescribed for, bring this issue to the physician’s attention.
If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.
Know Contraindications
You should always be aware of any contraindications that suggest your loved one shouldn’t take a particular medication. Caregivers need to be extra cautious with drugs used to treat problems with blood pressure or diabetes, as there are certain limitations governing when they shouldn’t be taken. All caregivers should be aware of these parameters, getting information from their loved ones’ primary care physicians if necessary.
Set Reminders
Make sure your loved one is taking medications as prescribed. If a dosage is forgotten or perhaps doubled, your loved one may experience ill effects. Daily medication reminders are a helpful way to keep track of dosages taken throughout the day. You can also purchase automatic pill dispensers that come in weekly or monthly sizes with compartments for medications taken up to four times each day.
From receiving medication reminders to performing basic housekeeping tasks, seniors may need help with an array of activities. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional home care Livingston seniors can trust and rely on.
Seek Professional Assistance
If you’re unable to provide around-the-clock care for your loved one, it may be beneficial to hire an hourly or live-in caregiver who can provide medication reminders. This ensures your loved one’s medication is taken on time in your absence, promoting overall safety and comfort.
For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Livingston, NJ, Assisting Hands Home Care is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break. To create a customized care plan for your loved one, call us today.
