If an elderly loved one is not taking their medication as prescribed, you may have cause for concern. Studies have shown that the failure of patients to take their prescriptions results in $300 billion in avoidable health care costs and 125,000 preventable deaths every year.  Here’s what you should know about senior care so you can help the senior in your life live with independence and security.

Why Do People Have Trouble Taking Medication?

There are many reasons why seniors fail to take medications as prescribed. Rarely is it deliberate. They may be confused. If they’re unsure of how often to take pills or how many to take, their health may suffer.

Many seniors may not realize the severity of their condition or feel like their medicine isn’t helping them. Perhaps they don’t like a medicine’s side effects. With the right pharmaceutical or senior care support, they’ll get the helpful advice and guidance they need to take their medicines as directed.

A senior who’s recently been discharged from the hospital may have a new series of drugs to take as they recover. If they don’t understand their discharge instructions, they may stop taking their pills and have a poorer outcome from their hospitalization.

How Can You Help?

Fortunately, with a little organization and awareness, you can help your loved one with their prescriptions by implementing a couple of lifestyle changes. You can organize their meds into pill boxes labeled with the days of the week and the times of day, whether morning or evening. Arrange their pills at the beginning of each week, and give them friendly reminders about how to take them, with water or with food, for example.

Alternatively, you could make an easy-to-read medication schedule. Professional help may also be necessary. An in-home senior care assistant can monitor adherence to the schedule and ensure a higher quality of life for you and your loved one.

Home Helpers of Jacksonville are the premier in-home senior care specialists in Calhoun County, AL. Think of them as your extended family. They’ll be there for your loved one when you can’t be, providing personal care, companion care, and homemaker services. To find out more about this locally owned and trusted team, call them today at (256) 776-7769 or visit their website.