Too Many Medicines

One very common problem associated with medication use among older adults and many people with disabilities is the use of multiple medications at one time, also referred to as “polypharmacy.” Research has shown that the more medications a person takes, the greater the risk of experiencing a medication-related problem. For most older persons, multiple medication use is the norm. Many chronic conditions or diseases—diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, incontinence, high blood pressure, pulmonary disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease—often require the use of multiple medications. The focus must be the appropriateness, effectiveness, and safety of all prescription and over-the-counter medications. Caregivers must ask questions about each medication, such as:

Is this medication really needed?
Is the medication the most appropriate for the medical condition being treated?
Will the medication be a problem with other medical conditions that are occurring at the same time?
Is the medication being prescribed at the right dose?
Does the medication interact with other medications?
Can the medication be taken correctly based on specific patient circumstances?
Some of the challenges faced by caregivers who must juggle multiple medications for their loved ones include keeping all the prescriptions filled, especially during weekends and holidays, and managing medications prescribed by multiple doctors. Planning ahead to refill prescriptions on time is essential; keeping an up-to-date medication record can inform doctors of all medicines prescribed by others. A “Caregiver’s Notebook”—a looseleaf binder maintained by a caregiver—is an ideal way to com-pile information on medical diagnoses, doctors’ appointments, questions, and medication history.
Nannys for Grannys is a private pay “Mom and Pop” Eldercare Home Health Care Agency that provides an important service for family members.For more info visit http://nannysforgrannys.com/new-york-senior-companion-care-services/

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