Medication management is an important preventive measure to avoid potentially serious health hazards. Simple mistakes can become dangerous and even fatal. 87% of seniors take one prescription drug and 36% take 5 or more. If you or your loved one need extra help staying organized, there are plenty of tools and devices to keep you on track.
Regular use of five or more medications can pose a serious health risk to seniors. Nearly 350,000 patients each year are hospitalized for further treatment after emergency visits for adverse drug events. People typically take more medicines as they age, and this increases the risk of adverse drug events, which cause approximately 1.3 million emergency department visits each year.
Older adults tend to have multiple illnesses and therefore take more drugs and polypharmacy increases the risk of poor outcomes. The number of medications a person uses is a risk factor for adverse drug reactions, nonadherence, financial burden, drug-drug interactions, and worse outcomes, according to a study by Steinman MA.
Medications only work if taken consistently and as directed by your doctor. Medicines may stay in the body longer and cause side effects if doses are not properly adjusted. If you are forgetful or having trouble tracking your medications, a reminder system may be helpful. Those with a cognitive impairment may need to have their medications carefully managed and monitored.