Tips That Help You Keep Your Dad's Medications Organized

Per the Merck Manual, an average of 90 percent of older adults take at least one prescription medication. Almost 40 percent take more than four prescription medications. That is only counting prescription medications. If you add vitamins and over-the-counter medications, the number skyrockets.

It’s important to sit down and go over your dad’s medications. Make sure he’s not wasting his money on unnecessary supplements. Once you’ve established the medications he needs to take, organize those medications to make medication management easier for him to manage.

Purchase a Pill Organizer

Purchase a pill organizer. You’ll find pillboxes at the local grocery store or pharmacy. An automated pill dispenser is a better choice if you need medications dispensed at certain times of the day. The automatic pill dispensers are also helpful if your parent is likely to take multiple days at once.

Go through the entire week or month, depending on the organizer, and sort the medications into the daily compartments. When you’re done, verify that you don’t need to order a prescription refill.

Keep All Pills in One Place

After filling the pill organizer, place the bottles back in a cabinet. If your parent has dementia, use a locking cabinet. The next time you open that cabinet, check the expiration dates, replace anything outdated, and fill the pillbox or dispenser for the next week or month.

Create a Checklist

Use a dry erase board that has three tasks made clear. Check each one off as it’s completed. The list should be check pills, fill pillbox/dispenser, and take pills. You’ll be responsible for the checking expiration dates and if refills are needed. You’ll also fill the pill organizer. Your dad needs to take the pills at the required times.

Talk to the Doctor

Talk to your dad’s doctor about the pills he’s taking. Include over-the-counter pills in this conversation. You want to make sure your dad isn’t taking a supplement or vitamin that is unnecessary or interferes with the effectiveness of his prescriptions.

If your dad is struggling to afford his medications, bring it up. There may be better options. If you’re not sure a specific medication is needed, ask his doctor why he’s taking it. For example, if your dad is taking an anti-anxiety medication and another doctor prescribes an antidepressant, verify that both are necessary.

Is It Time for Medication Reminders?

If your dad struggles to remember to take his pills, even with an organizer, it could be time for caregivers. Caregivers can help him from everything from medication reminders to ordering refills. Call a home care agency to talk about these and other services caregivers provide.

Sources:
https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/older-people%E2%80%99s-health-issues/aging-and-drugs/aging-and-drugs

If you are considering caregivers in Fort White, FL, for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts Home Care. Call today: 352-225-3727.

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