Medication Monitoring

For a variety of reasons older folks frequently are challenged with taking medicines timely and correctly.  Failing vision, memory problems, difficulty with dexterity and multiple prescriptions and supplements can cause problems.   If meds are not taken or are taken incorrectly, there could be physical symptoms of illness.  There are a variety of tools we can recommend to address this issue. Several types of medication dispensing systems are available for home use, some very simple and some even computerized.   We, as nurses, can be available to fill medication boxes, provide important information about the meds, order refills when needed, and be watchful of signs that meds are not being taken accurately.