Medication management for seniors can be one of the most challenging tasks older adults and caregivers face. More than a third of all seniors take five or more prescription medications daily, while many also use nonprescription drugs (over-the-counter medicines). Additionally, seniors managing a chronic disease may take medications at various times throughout the day.
The combination of multiple medications and complicated schedules can sometimes result in confusion, as well as incorrect dosing. The likelihood of adverse drug events increases with the number of pills prescribed. As a result, older adults are at high risk of being sent to the ER due to drug interactions.
Managing medications can be a complex process – being organized and developing a system are key. Frequent communication with your primary care provider or pharmacist is essential, too, especially in the beginning or when a new medication is introduced. Use the following tips to get started.
Create a List
Begin by gathering your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Expired medications can be dangerous, so dispose of any items that are outdated. The FDA offers guidelines on its website on how to discard medicine safely.
Next, create a complete list of the medications. Be sure to list daily medications, as well as ones you might take occasionally (i.e., antacids, seasonal allergy drugs, or cold medications).
Include the following details:
- Medication name and strength (include generic name, if applicable)
- Doctor’s name and contact information
- What condition the medication is prescribed for (diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.)
- Dosage (how much and how many times per day)
- Notes (include refill date, how the medication should be taken, precautions, etc.)
While a notebook works fine, you may want to consider using a digital solution like a spreadsheet or a medication management app. Either will allow you to share information quickly with your medical team and access it whenever you need.
When in a caregiving role, ensure you’re listed as the primary point of contact with doctors and pharmacies, and that HIPAA release forms have been filled out to enable you to gather this information more easily. Keep the notebook or digital file with you at all times for convenient and quick access when needed.
Simplifying Medication Regimens
Once you complete the medication list, you should have a better understanding of the overall medication regimen. You may find medication management more difficult if you take medications throughout the day.
Consider scheduling a time to talk with your primary care provider about options to simplify medications. Questions you might ask include:
- Are there any medications that can be eliminated?
- Is there a different version of the medication that would limit the dose to either once or twice a day?
Senior caregivers can serve as advocates for an aging friend or family member by facilitating conversations with the primary care provider to simplify medication management. Medication adherence is important to managing chronic diseases, so your primary care provider should be more than willing to work with you to develop a solution.
Medication Synchronization
Another easy way to simplify medication management is to reduce how often you must stop by the pharmacy for refills. Most pharmacies offer a medication synchronization program to coordinate your prescription schedule, so only one monthly trip is necessary.
Switching to a mail-order service may also be a possibility. Most companies typically offer a 90-day supply, with the medications delivered to your doorstep. Not all medications are eligible for this program, so check with the insurance company or pharmacist for more information.
Organize a System
A pill box is one of the simplest medication management tools seniors and caregivers can use. Things to consider when purchasing a pill box:
- Do you have a condition that limits your fine motor skills? (i.e., Parkinson’s or arthritis)
- Do you have difficulty remembering to take your medications?
- How many medications do you need to take, and how often do you need to take them throughout the day?
Most are inexpensive, and plenty of options are available either at your local pharmacy or online. Pill boxes with easy open lids and rounded bottoms are perfect if you have difficulty using your hands, while an organizer with a built-in reminder and alarm may be best if you sometimes forget to take your medications.
Another approach is a traditional pill box paired with a bit of technology. If you’re tech-savvy, you can download a medication management app to your smartphone. In addition to providing a reminder, some apps will alert you or the caregiver if a dose has been missed.
Whatever system you decide to use, think about how to streamline the process. If you fill the box for one week, can you purchase another and fill two? Use the list you created as a guide to ensure you don’t forget to include medication and to help track when refills need to be ordered.
Related: Apps to Help Make Caregiving Easier >>
Ask Questions
Another facet of medication management is understanding the medicines that have been prescribed, including any special instructions for taking them or associated side effects. When in a caregiving role, make sure to accompany the senior on appointments to ask questions and voice any concerns you might have.
Not sure what to ask? Here’s a list of questions to get you started:
- Why is this medication being prescribed?
- How does the medication work?
- How long will I need to take the medication?
- Do I need to be concerned this medication will interact with the other medicines I’m currently taking? (Be sure to have your medication list)
- How should the medication be taken? Is there an alternative to a pill if I have problems swallowing? (i.e., liquid, chewed, crushed, or dissolved)
- Are there any side effects I should be aware of? Are there any symptoms I should contact you about?
- Are there any precautions I need to know about? (i.e., avoiding sun exposure or certain foods)
Watch for Signs of Substance Use
Unfortunately, older adults are at risk of prescription drug abuse and addiction, especially when prescribed at least five medications. Research suggests that nearly one million adults aged 65 years or older reported a substance use disorder.
Seniors who take medications regularly and drink alcohol may experience harmful effects from the alcohol-medication interactions. Caregivers should talk to the primary care provider about the risks of mixing alcohol with the prescribed medications.
Here are signs of substance use to watch for:
- Slurred speech
- Sleep problems
- Memory loss or confusion
- Poor hygiene
- Less contact with friends and family
- Mood swings
If you determine the substance use is intentional, speak with a primary care provider so they can assess the situation and offer treatment solutions, which may include individual behavioral therapy, group therapy, support groups, or a detox program.
Find Support with Medication Management at The Bristal Assisted Living
Assisted living communities like The Bristal offer medication management services for residents who need assistance. In collaboration with the resident and their family, The Bristal develops an Individual Service Plan (ISP) to help define specific needs — the plan can be adjusted as those needs change. Learn more about assisted living services and amenities on our website.
This blog was originally published in 2021. It was updated in December 2024.
