Medication Management
As you age, taking medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements becomes a normal part of your daily routine. But, managing multiple medications can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve had recent changes that require more complicated schedules, quantities and/or delivery specifications such as empty stomach, with meals, at night, no dairy, etc. Here are a few helpful tips to keep you on track.
Create a Medication List
Write out a list of what you’re currently taking and when you take each one. Include the dose and suggested use as well. Copying this list and giving it to a family member will help in case of an emergency.
Practice Good Storage Habits
Whether a prescribed medication, vitamin, herbal supplement, or over-the-counter drug, you want to be sure your pills are in the same spot to keep track of them easier. Many medications require a cool, dry place – meaning NOT in the medicine cabinet in the bathroom.
Use Technology
Pill boxes are great, if that helps you organize and take your prescriptions and supplements, but mobile applications like Medisafe Pill Reminder with alerts can be huge assets in helping remind you to take daily medications. Maintaining regular schedules is easy with a few tools to manage your routine.
Communicate Clearly with Your Physician
Be sure to tell your doctor about any vitamins or over the counter medications you are taking so he or she can watch for dangerous interactions. Keep your doctor updated on any symptoms you may be having to assess the need for changing or excluding medications. And be sure to plan ahead if you're going on vacation or are a "snowbird" and will be living away from your regular pharmacy for an extended period of time.
Medication management doesn’t have to be a struggle. But it is critical for good health. According to American Heart Association, it’s estimated that three out of four Americans do not take their medication as directed.
Taking medication correctly may seem like a simple task, but non-adherence (or not taking medication as directed) is a complicated and common problem. People don’t realize the real damage or consequences of non-adherence. When patients with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease do not take medication as directed, the repercussions can be severe. For instance, not keeping blood pressure in check can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Managing medications effectively can keep you happy and healthy for years to come so you can enjoy new adventures with family and friends.