Medication and the elderly - preventing dangerous mistakes

Medication errors are widespread among the elderly community. Many elders take on average of six (6) to eight (8) different prescriptions as well as over the counter medication. Oftentimes the elderly will not return to their primary doctor to have their dosage evaluated and modified when things change, opting instead to take the advice of loved ones. This is very dangerous.

The following procedures may facilitate the elderly in monitoring their medication:

• Make a list of all prescription medication and all supplements being taken.
• Provide this list to the doctor and pharmacist and have one on hand for emergencies. 
• Utilize the same Pharmacy to fill all prescriptions. Pharmacies keep a record of your prescribed drugs, and they will verify your doctor's instructions. Pharmacies will also inform you if certain foods or over the counter supplements will negatively interact with a prescription. 
• Dispense pills in a daily pill organizer box. 
• Have a family member or other adult be responsible to call or physically monitor the taking of medication

By: Todd C. Ratner, Esq.