Prevent Potential Health Hazards With Medication Management

Experts say medication management is an important preventive measure to avoid potential serious health hazards for seniors. As many older adults take multiple medications, vitamins, and supplements to treat different symptoms and health conditions, they are at a greater risk for medication mix-ups. Researchers estimate that 25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports approximately 350,000 people are hospitalized each year due to adverse, or harmful, drug events. While these episodes are usually preventable, doctors acknowledge it can be confusing keeping track of daily dosages and special instructions such as to take with or without food or the time of day, etc.

If an elderly parent or grandparent is taking several medications, healthcare providers say it is a good idea to inquiry about their medication management. One sign they may not be organized is if they have medications stored in different locations throughout the house, and old, outdated prescriptions are mixed in with current ones. You can start by gathering all medications in one place, remember it is best to store them in a cool, dry location, and set aside any outdated medications for proper disposal. Write down the names of the drugs, dosages, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them. Also, include herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs. Bring the list to the next visit to their primary care physician and ask why mom or dad is taking it, how long they will be on it, and do any medications present a dangerous interaction with another drug they are on.

For exceptional senior living, Santa Fe, NM’s MorningStar community provides 56 stylish suites for assisted living along with 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure residents’ comfort and wellbeing. Our care services include care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication care managers. Please see our website to learn more about MorningStar of Santa Fe.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.