For many people, the need for more medications is just another part of the aging process. While prescription and over-the-counter medications may improve an individual's quality of life, it's possible that they could cause dangerous interactions if not monitored correctly.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently released a statement reminding older adults and their caregivers to be careful about medication use. The government agency provided the following tips:
Do background research
If an individual takes more than one medication, the risk of interaction is present. Alcohol and even certain foods can also affect how the body reacts to a certain drug. Care recipients and providers need to take the time to read the informational labels that come with medications.
Keep track of all drugs being used
Caregivers need to keep track of all medications a care recipient is taking and their dosages. This is helpful information to a health care provider, who will typically base any medication recommendations on what a patient is already taking.
Take medications as prescribed
"Medication can't work unless you take it," Dr.Sandra Kweder, the FDA's deputy director of the Office of New Drugs, said in the press release. "For instance, medications that treat chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes typically only work when taken regularly and as directed. You have to take them continuously to maintain control over your condition."
Independa's care solutions like Smart Reminders can help older adults remember important tasks like taking medications on time. Simply enter the care recipient's medication information on their LG television that runs our Independa Angela software. The software will then automatically prompt the care recipient. If a medication isn't taken, the caregiver is alerted. To schedule a demo, contact us through our online form.
