If your senior loved one has medications that are vital to their health, it’s important to ensure they take them at the right times. However, every year, medical non-adherence—the term used to describe the act of not following prescription instructions—results in 125,000 preventable deaths and $300 billion in avoidable health care costs. Often, older people have trouble staying on top of their medication, especially when they have an independent living situation. If you have a family member you’re concerned about, here are several ways to help with their medication.

How to Help a Loved One With Their Medications

1. Make a Visual Chart

Some people respond better to visual stimuli. Buy a large wall calendar or chart detailing the medication that needs to be taken, including the days and times. Make sure it’s brightly colored and vibrant so they don’t miss it. 

2. Pill Boxes

Pill boxes are handy containers labeled with each day of the week—some even have spaces where you can write the time of day, too. At the beginning of the week, fill each box with the pills your relative needs to take each day so all they need to do is follow the schedule.

3. Associate Medication With an Activity

Associate their medication with an activity, such as brushing teeth, feeding a pet, or sitting down to breakfast. This is particularly helpful if they’re losing their memory, as habits can be powerful reminders. 

4. Set an Alarm

Set alarms to remind them what medication they need to take and when. While these may be intrusive in their day, they’ll serve as excellent reminders. Have the alarms use different sounds for each type of medication; this will help them remember which pills they need to take. 

Red Cedar Canyon Senior Living in Hudson, WI, offers one of the leading senior care living communities in St. Croix County. They strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment where residents can preserve their independent living routines with dignity while having the expert support of kind and patient caregivers. Call today on (715) 381-7333 or go online to learn more about their independent living options.