We all know that medications can save lives, but most of us have heard frightening stories about patients who have received incorrect medication – either due to an issue with the doctor or pharmacy. What many people don’t think about is that there is a hidden danger even when we get the right medication — the danger of non-adherence.
Much like driving down the wrong side of the road, using a prescription improperly is dangerous. In fact, it is more so — 125,000 people die each year due to prescription medication non-adherence, twice the number killed in car accidents. While many people may think they are following the rules when it comes to their prescriptions, medication adherence mistakes happen frequently. These mistakes include:
- Failure to fill or refill a prescription
- Missing one or multiple doses
- Taking the wrong medication
- Taking more medication than prescribed
- Prematurely discontinuing medication
- Improper use of devices such as inhalers or syringes
- Taking expired, damaged, or improperly stored medications
Medication adherence can be a particularly big issue among older adults who take multiple prescription drugs. However, evidence suggests that, with the proper motivation, education, and support, elders can overcome many barriers to medication adherence. The following are a number of strategies to assist with common causes of medication non-adherence.
Memory Loss: A major issue when it comes to medication adherence among elderly individuals is memory loss. People with dementia or Alzheimer's disease may forget to take their medications or even take multiple doses, having forgotten that they took the medication earlier.
- Strategy: Make taking medication a part of another daily routine, using pill dispensers and/or charts to stay organized.
Difficulty Swallowing Pills: Some older adults have difficulty swallowing, and may attempt to chew or crush pills, causing long-acting medications to be released into the body too quickly.
- Strategy: Talk to the person's doctor or pharmacist to find out if the medicine is available in a liquid or smaller tablet form that is easier to swallow.
Transportation Issues: Some elderly individuals may be homebound or are unable to drive or easily access transportation and cannot regularly pick up prescriptions.
- Strategy: Ask the pharmacy about mail order prescriptions that can be delivered to the home, or hire an in-home caregiver, like those at Independence-4-Seniors, to provide transportation to the pharmacy, as well as doctors’ appointments and other outings.
Taking prescription medications the right way is vital to your senior loved one’s health. Taking prescription medications the wrong way is dangerous. If you have a loved one who is experiencing one of these obstacles or any other hindrance in adhering to medications, contact the care experts at Independence-4-Seniors today at 630-323-4665. We can help you create medication management strategies for success!