If you take several types of medication, it’s important to make sure you’re staying on track with all of them. Your pharmacy likely provided instructions regarding when and how to take each drug, as well as possible side effects to watch for. Here are some ways you can take a proactive approach to proper medication management as a senior.

A Guide to Managing Medicines for Seniors

1. Organize Your Pills

Keeping all of your medications in one central location will reduce the odds of missing a dose or misplacing pills. Most pill bottles need to be stored in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight. Some may need to be refrigerated, however. Follow the instructions on the bottle for proper storage and to avoid compromising your medications.

When it comes to pills for each day, consider using a pill organizer with spaces for daily use. At the start of each week, set up your organizer with the medications you’ll need. This will prevent you from forgetting whether you’ve taken a pill, which could lead to potentially dangerous overdoses or missed doses. Pill organizers are available for purchase at most pharmacies.

2. Use Reminders

It’s easy to get sidetracked with your daily responsibilities and forget to take your medications. Minimize this risk by setting up a reminder. You could use an app on your phone to alert you, for instance. Schedule an alarm to go off at the same time every day so you won’t miss any doses. For extra peace of mind, consider creating a calendar and cross off each day as you take your pills.

3. Stick With One Pharmacy

If you have multiple prescriptions, it’s best to fill them in one centralized location. Otherwise, it can become overwhelming to remember which medications are filled by which pharmacy. Sticking to one pharmacy will also save you time from having to run errands in several places. Plus, along with your doctor, pharmacists can look out for potential drug interactions if they’re filling all of your prescriptions. 

For a caring and attentive pharmacy that offers personalized support for people of all ages, turn to Bernens Medical & Pharmacy in Cincinnati. This trusted location offers a comprehensive range of services, including filling prescriptions as well as providing quality medical equipment. See their full list of services online or get in touch by calling (513) 471-7575.