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Did you know that adverse drug reactions is estimated as the 4th largest cause of death among the elderly?

 

One of the biggest dangers the elderly face today is drug interactions through poor medication management. Recent studies show that more than 80 percent of adults over 57 years of age take a least one prescription and that about half of them regularly mix drugs with over-the-counter medications and supplements. The elderly are also more likely to accidentally overdose a medication because they forgot they have already taken a dose.
 
The elderly can be at increased risk from medicines for various reasons:
 
  • The aging body can be more susceptible to the side effects of medicines

 

  • Elderly people with multiple diseases can often end up taking multiple medicines at the same time. With multiple medicines, there is an increased change of side effects, interactions between different medicines and problems taking them correctly.

 

  • The physical effects of aging, such as arthritis and failing eyesight and memory, can also cause issues in taking medicines the way your doctor intended.

 

  • The practice of “poly-pharmacy” (using multiple pharmacies) can often result in a senior taking a duplicate medication and having a serious drug interaction because the different pharmacists are not aware of the other medications the senior may be taking.

 

Adverse drug reactions is estimated as the 4th largest cause of death among the elderly. There are many things the elderly can do to help improve medication management.

 

  • They can begin by getting all you medications filled at a single pharmacy. This will allow the pharmacist to do a complete drug interaction check each time a prescription is filled.

 

  • Keep an updated list of medications handy. You should list all prescription, over-the-counter medications and supplements. You can show this list to your doctors and pharmacists each time you visit.

 

  • Another good idea, is to give a copy of your medications to a family member or a friend.

 

At Home Personal Care feels that proper medication management is important. We feel that medication management is one of the most important parts of home care services. A proper assessment of all medication is a crucial step within our initial assessment. We make sure to list all health issues and medications being taken. We ensure that each client keeps their doctors appointment. Each doctor is made aware of the medications being taken from each doctor that you see. We make sure your medication is refilled on time. Enlisting a daily schedule makes it easier for clients to take their medication. We educate caregivers, families and seniors to understand the importance of medication and that there is no replacement for the value and benefit of one on one personal assistance.



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