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Medication Safety for Seniors

The more medications a person takes the greater the risk of accidental poisoning and other medication-related complications. Older patients are especially vulnerable to accidental poisoning since they often take multiple medications. While seniors usually follow strict medication regimens to avoid mistakes, the increased number of medications combined with the often-complex medication schedules places them at a heightened risk for accidental poisoning. Patients taking multiple medications can reduce their risk for accidental poisoning by adhering to the following guidelines:

• Maintain a list of all current medications. This should include the drug name (brand and generic), dosage, and frequency. If your medications change, make sure to update your list.

• Communicate with your doctor and pharmacist. Notify them of any medication or food allergies you may have as well as any over-the-counter medications, vitamins, nutritional or herbal supplements you are taking.

• Know your medications. This involves knowing why you take them, what side effects they cause, and substances to avoid. You should also know what each medication looks like. If you receive a drug that doesn't look like your normal medication, you will know to ask why. The general rule is the more you know, the better able you are to prevent a possible error.

• Choose a primary pharmacy. Pharmacy computers can check for drug interactions and allergies, so it is important for your pharmacist to be aware of all the medications you are taking. By filling your prescriptions with one pharmacy, you are consolidating all of your allergy and medication information into a single system and ultimately providing your pharmacist with the means to reduce your risk for adverse drug interactions.

• Pay attention to your body. Write down any symptoms you experience after taking medications. This information can help your doctor adjust your dosage.

• Routine , Routine, Routine. One of the best ways to avoid medication mishaps is to follow a routine. Create a daily schedule and be sure to follow it exactly everyday.

• Keep contact information close at hand. Make a contact sheet that includes your doctor's name and number, your pharmacist's name and number, and your local poison control center. Post this information in a conspicuous place in case of an emergency.

If you have questions or concerns about any medications you are currently taking, consult with your physician or pharmacist. Remember that your health is your right , and information is the first step toward prevention.

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