Managing Your Medications is an Essential Life Skill

Properly managing your medications can be an issue of life or death, especially for seniors or those taking multiple daily medicines.

The recently held a seminar on medications management by volunteers from the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). With more than 800 volunteers in Suffolk County alone, RSVP offers dozens of assistance programs and opportunities for seniors all over Long Island.

“We are all living longer and more comfortably but it is a complicated process,” program coordinator Rosemary McGuiness said. “With all the different prescriptions and chemicals, we want to get the desired result. But we have to be responsible patients and caregivers.”

Fifty eight percent of emergency room visits are due to medication mismanagement. And 35 percent of hospitalizations in seniors are from medication mismanagement. Close to 125,000 people die each year from misusing medicines. Medication misuse is responsible for expensive, catastrophic health problems. Misuse of drugs is the fifth leading cause of death in older adults.

“Know what your medications are, what they do, and how they all interact,” McGuiness said. “As you age, your body changes and the way medicines are absorbed and used changes as well.”

The process begins at the doctor’s office, she added. Don’t leave the office until you are satisfied that you have all the information you need about your medications. Bring a friend or family member for support and to ask additional questions.

Know the difference between generics and brand-name medications. Know what foods or drinks can interact with your medicines and their side effects. Side effects are symptoms or feelings you have when taking a medicine that are not desired or expected.

Your pharmacist is also an excellent resource. They can help track interactions with other medications and let you know about any undesirable side effects. If possible, try to buy all your medicines, even over-the-counter ones, in the same place.

There are four commonly caused drugs interactions: drug vs. drug; food vs. drug; alcohol vs. drug; and drug vs. pre-existing medical condition.

“Tell the doctor and pharmacist about your medical history and all drugs or supplements you are taking,” McGuiness said. “All medicines count. It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

When it comes to over-the-counter medications, read and follow the directions on the label. Avoid over-the-counter remedies that treat several symptoms. Check the expiration dates and think about how long you will be using the medicine.

When it comes to recognizing and remembering to take your medication, devise a system that works best for you. It is also a good idea to take all your medicines to your doctor at least once a year for a medicine checkup.

When taking prescription medications, it’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions. Never stop taking medications on your own without first speaking to your doctor. Take only your own medicines and plan properly for medications you take during the night.

Keep medications in a cool, dark place away from a bright light. If there are children in the home, remember to keep medicines out of their sight and reach. Always keep your medicines in their original containers and keep a record of what you are taking.