Table of Contents
- 1 Medication reminder in your home
- 2 Effects of forgetting or taking the wrong medication for the elderly
- 3 What is a medication reminder app?
- 4 How to choose a medication reminder app?
- 5 How to use a medication reminder app?
- 6 How can an in-home caregiver help?
- 7 Who needs a medication reminder?
- 8 Medication reminder in Las Vegas
Medication reminder in your home
It is estimated that one-third of all people over the age of 57 take at least five medications daily. Of these, 55 percent do not take their medications as prescribed by their doctor. This number significantly increases the risk of side effects and overdose in elderly patients.
Not taking prescribed medication can lead to serious health consequences. In some cases, doctors do not properly explain how to use the medicine properly. On the other hand, the patient may feel that he does not need to take medicine anymore. For many of us, it has happened that we forget.
Hiring an in-home caregiver acting as a memory aid is a rational way to provide basic medical care for your loved one. They can ensure that the proper amount of medicine is being taken at the right time.
Medication reminding is a tough task. For instance, dementia patients might think they have already taken their medication and refuse to do so. Fortunately, our experienced caregivers know how to patiently interact with the patient based on the patient’s needs and circumstances and ensure that they receive the correct dose of medication.
Effects of forgetting or taking the wrong medication for the elderly
The results of taking the wrong medication or not taking them depends on the person and situation. Different types of medicine could have various effects on seniors. However, the following complications might happen:
- Confusion
- Falls
- Hallucinations
- Bleeding
- Hospitalization
- Organ failure
The effects of drugs (Pharmacodynamics) increases the risk of side effects in seniors due to age-related changes as well.
What is a medication reminder app?
A reminder regarding which pills to take when might be useful, particularly for those who take medication on a daily basis. It may also aid in the prevention of major negative health impacts. A medication reminder app alerts a user when it is time to take specified prescriptions. It may be downloaded into a smartphone or other device. Taking medicine at the appropriate time enhances its effectiveness and safety.
According to one 2017 study, participants delayed taking their meds 80-85% of the time and forgot to take them 44-46% of the time. As a result, each year, an estimated 125,000 people die due to failing to take prescriptions as recommended.
How to choose a medication reminder app?
Aside from prices and features, you can consider the following factors for choosing a medication reminder app.
Health claims. Choose businesses that make no dubious health claims.
Trust. Include brands that are transparent about their goods, services, and leadership. Additionally, the firms have certificates from recognized third-party organizations when applicable.
Business ethics. Consider businesses that use safe, ethical marketing and business practices.
Reputation. Select companies with no governing body warnings or outstanding litigation and companies with favorable Better Business Bureau ratings.
How to use a medication reminder app?
Various medication reminder devices and medication monitoring applications are available in the application stores. Download an application you find suitable. Setting up a profile, add your medications, and setting pill reminders is a fast procedure. When you take medicine, you may mark it, and the timing is logged and tracked. Each day, it is simple to see what you have yet to take and the things you’ve already taken. You may also enter how much of each drug you have on hand and have the app notify you when you are running short. All of this information is available to caregivers.
How can an in-home caregiver help?
By getting an experienced caregiver, you will greatly reduce your worries about your loved one. Our caregivers will consider the following for each patient:
- Taking medicine at the right time in the right amount
- Considerations while taking the drug: For example, should the drug be taken on an empty stomach or with food.
- Post-drug considerations: For example, you should not lie down for half an hour after taking some medications such as Doxycycline.
- Drug-food interactions: For example, some medications used to control blood pressure should not be taken with grapefruit. Or if the patient should take iron supplements, the meal should not contain calcium.
- Storage of medicines: Some medicines such as antibiotics should be stored in the refrigerator.
- Setting up the pillbox
Who needs a medication reminder?
A medication reminder might be necessary for seniors suffering from medical ailments or conditions. For example, the elderly dealing with dementia or Alzheimer’s might have to take several medications to help their conditions. People with mobility problems are among the other patients who can benefit from these services. As not being able to move, they cannot take medicine with the right consideration.
Medication reminder in Las Vegas
Medication reminder helps the seniors to take the right medication at the right time of the day. Handling medicine, monitoring the required condition for the medicine, preparing food, hygiene, and companionship services are only part of the Home Assist’s benefits.
Our extensively skilled and highly trained caregivers can provide customized care plans, protection, and peace of mind for your loved one. With Health & Care Professional Network, you will always have us on your side to ensure you are cared for by the best in the business.
Give us a call at (702) 871-9917 to get more information and arrange in-home services.
You can get information about other Home Assist services.
How long can the caregiver stay with my father and manage his medicine?
The answer depends on your father’s conditions and your request for an in-home caregiver. Contact us and explain your situation so we can provide further information.