For more information about the author, click to view their website: The Windsor of Cape Coral
The typical person in their later sixties and older takes several medications for chronic conditions. These may be drugs to regulate blood sugar, thyroid, blood pressure, cholesterol, allergies, mood, or any of hundreds of other mild-to-serious conditions. Your comprehensive blood panel is your and your doctor's way of monitoring the effect of the drugs prescribed, as well as whether they're working or not or if they may be interacting with one another. And, besides, you're changing.
How do we know you're changing? You're aging. Your liver and kidneys break down and eliminate drugs from your body, and your liver and kidneys are aging. You may lose muscle and gain fat, affecting how drugs work. All of this can complicate the effectiveness of meds and, especially important, create harmful side effects.
So, consider these medication tips – after you see your doctor.
On that all-important visit with your doctor, be involved. The doctor or nurse should ask you if your meds have changed or if you've stopped or started either prescribed medicine or over-the-counter drugs or supplements. They all count! If you're taking something prescribed by another doctor that's not on your primary's list – speak up.
Take only prescription meds your health care provider has prescribed. None of this, "Here, try one of mine" from your golf partner. Taking someone else's medicine can be very dangerous. This is particularly true of pain medication, which could worsen your condition or cause addiction. You probably know opioids are highly addictive but are not the only ones.
The interaction of drugs is unpredictable. Your doctor has the proper outlook on your entire series of medications. Please don't stop taking or skip prescribed medications because you think you don't need them anymore, feel they've stopped working, or think they're causing a side effect. Consult your doctor about any side effects.
Take side effects seriously. In the United States, 125,000 people die annually from incorrectly taking their medications!
Talk to your pharmacist or health care provider about ways to help you take the proper dosage on time every time. It's typical to forget to take your meds. But it's not okay. Many antibiotics must be taken after the infection stops or after you stop feeling the symptom. Hence the instructions to take every dose until they're gone.
If you're a family member or caregiver reading this, please provide the person under your care with prefilled pillboxes and automated reminders attached to pill bottles, or subscribe to a pill packaging service that sorts, packages, and delivers by individual dose.
Keep all medicine up and away from children, wherever you store them. Around 10,000 children are accidentally poisoned by prescription meds every year, and a child dies every 12 days from such poisoning. If you have questions about safely storing your medicines, contact your pharmacist or health care provider.
Store meds in a safe, cool, dry place. A high drawer reserved for medications in a dresser or cabinet is good. Be careful that meds that need to be cooled are stored in the fridge, but give them a shelf where children can't reach them. There will be storage instructions on the bottle. Due to fluctuating heat and humidity, a bathroom medicine cabinet may be the worst place. Even if meds are not expired, improper storage can render them ineffective or unsafe.
Remember we talked about how you're changing as you age? So is your medication. If you have an old bottle of aspirin that's been haunting the top shelf of a kitchen cabinet for a couple of decades, don't use it. Some meds lose their effectiveness, but others can degrade into toxicity. Check the expiration dates.
There are proper ways to dispose of unused medications. Throwing them in the trash is not one of them. Discarded drugs can end up in the water supply and may be eaten by wildlife or pets. See any disposal instructions that may be on the side of the bottle. Many pharmacies have disposal sites where you can drop the old drugs. You can search for "medication disposal sites" or see the FDA's webpage that instructs you on the options of disposing of meds.
Grapefruit juice is always good for you. Here's something you may need to learn about grapefruit juice. The grapefruit has these beneficial enzymes that naturally protect it from the effects of insects and other harmful stressors. Unfortunately, these same enzymes inhibit the breakdown of certain medications in the human stomach, making some drugs ineffective or even toxic. So, what's good for the grapefruit is only sometimes suitable for the patient. Don't let this stop you from enjoying your morning grapefruit. Ask your doctor because this has been studied, and there's a list of drugs more likely to interact. And we only bring this up to illustrate how seemingly harmless or good-for-you foods and supplements can seriously interact with your medication. Ask your doctor about any potential adverse interactions.
Prescription drugs can affect each other dramatically. For example, nitroglycerin, which treats angina, should not be taken with many erectile dysfunction medications, including Viagra and Cialis, because serious interactions can occur. Your pharmacist can also advise you about potential medication interactions and side effects.
You may also have a medical condition that makes a particular medication risky. Again, your healthcare provider armed with your health record, a physical exam, and blood work is the best call here. Even herbal supplements you get off the shelf at the grocery store, though you're free to take them without a prescription, can interact. It may surprise you, but 40 percent of the drugs behind the pharmacist's counter are derived from plants used as natural remedies since ancient times. Grapefruit juice is used to prevent gout attacks, for example. Go figure. So, supplements are drugs, too, and they deserve the same caution as prescription meds when mixed with others.
Not surprisingly, alcohol is a common offender. The NIH warns that "mixing alcohol with certain medications can cause nausea and vomiting, headaches, drowsiness, fainting, or loss of coordination. It also can put you at risk for internal bleeding, heart problems, and difficulties in breathing." In other words, alcohol, whether it has sedative or stimulant effects on any person, should be considered a drug when taking other medication.
If you're experiencing something you suspect is a medical condition, such as memory loss or difficulty, dizziness, or sleepiness, particularly for seniors, the medication may mimic the symptoms. Before you skip or stop taking the meds, consult your doctor. Ask your healthcare provider if any new health problems you are experiencing could be due to your medications at your regular physical.
There are many good reasons to keep a list of your current medications besides remembering which ones you're taking. Making a list is an excellent excuse to go through your cabinet or drawer and collect all your medicines. You can check duplicates and expired prescriptions (Don't mix expired medications with new ones!), find out if you need to take one you've forgotten about, and add any non-prescription medicine or supplements (including vitamins) you need to update your doctor on.
Keep the list with you. And keep it current. Give a copy to a friend or relative – for sure your emergency medical contact person – in case of emergency and when you're traveling. Note any medicines you're allergic to or have had bad reactions to. Wear a medical alert bracelet for severe medicine needs (like insulin) or allergies. Store your medication list on your cell phone in a notepad app. If you're fortunate enough to have a healthcare provider who has your prescription record online, this can save you a lot of headaches when filling out medical forms – even at the dentist. These forms almost always ask for the dosage, too, so those should be included.
A medication list should include the following:
Most people see more than one provider. Even if they don't ask, share your list with each provider and ensure it's updated at each visit. It's okay to suggest it to your provider, and it's essential, and it would be worth scheduling an annual review of medications with your primary care physician.
Some meds are expensive, and sometimes there are generic alternatives. It also matters which insurance you use and where the pharmacy might get the medicine. These days, a good pharmacy can check the price of drugs from one provider or another. Using prescription discount cards (they're free) also can get you a surprising discount sometimes. Ask your healthcare provider if there is a less expensive, effective alternative.
Also, tell your doctor if the medication doesn't work. If you're taking pain medication, it should lessen the pain. It could be a simple fix. New drugs are being developed all the time. Your primary physician is the one to ask. They may say it's safe to try it. Before you try a new brand-name pharmaceutical, you know the price. A drug that costs two dollars in its generic form may be $600 in its brand version.
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, its a beautiful reminder that autumn is upon us. While the fall season brings cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice, it also presents unique challenges, especially for seniors. With slippery leaves, shorter days, and the onset of colder weather, its crucial to take steps to ensure your home is as safe as possible. Here are some essential fall prevention safety tips to help create a secure home environment this autumn.1. Keep Walkways Clear of Leaves and DebrisFallen leaves can be beautiful, but when they accumulate on walkways, they can become slippery, especially when wet. Regularly rake and clear paths, driveways, and steps to prevent slips and falls.2. Improve Outdoor LightingAs daylight hours shorten, good lighting becomes more important than ever. Make sure outdoor lights are functioning properly and consider adding motion-sensor lights around entrances and walkways. This not only helps prevent falls but also enhances security around your home.3. Install Grab Bars and HandrailsBathrooms and staircases are common areas where falls occur. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and handrails along stairs can provide the extra support needed to prevent accidents. Ensure these are securely attached and regularly check them for stability.4. Use Non-Slip Mats and RugsSlippery floors can be hazardous, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Place non-slip mats in these areas and secure rugs with non-slip pads to prevent them from sliding. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of falls.5. Declutter and OrganizeCluttered spaces can be a tripping hazard. Take the time to declutter your home, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms. Ensure that cords, shoes, and other obstacles are stored away properly. A tidy home is not only more comfortable but also safer.6. Schedule a Heating System CheckAs temperatures drop, you'll likely be using your heating system more frequently. Before the cold fully sets in, have your heating system inspected by a professional to ensure it's working safely and efficiently. A well-maintained system can prevent accidents and keep your home warm throughout the fall and winter.7. Check Fire Alarms and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsWith the increased use of heating systems, its important to ensure that your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Test them monthly, replace batteries as needed, and consider upgrading to newer models if your devices are outdated.8. Consider a Free Senior Home Safety AssessmentFor seniors, creating a safe home environment is essential. TruBlue offers a Free Senior Home Safety Assessment to help identify potential hazards and recommend modifications to enhance safety. Our certified Senior Safety Specialists can provide personalized solutions that cater to the unique needs of seniors, allowing them to age in place safely.Fall is a season of change, and its the perfect time to take proactive steps to ensure your home is safe and secure. By following these fall prevention tips, you can reduce the risk of accidents and create a more comfortable living environment. Whether its clearing walkways, improving lighting, or installing safety features like grab bars, each small action can make a big difference.At TruBlue, were committed to helping you maintain a safe and comfortable home. Contact us today to schedule your Free Senior Home Safety Assessment and take the first step towards a safer autumn. Together, we can ensure that you or your loved ones can enjoy the beauty of the season without worry.
Recently, I tuned in to an NPR program that was discussing the concept of 'aging in place,' inspired by an insightful article in the Sun Times. As the host engaged in a conversation with her two guests, I was intrigued as they explored various aspects of traditional aging in place concepts, from the installation of safety equipment like shower grab bars to employing plug-in LED lights in hallways and on stairways to prevent falls. They emphasized the importance of having a communication plan for emergencies, ensuring that those choosing to age in their homes have a way to reach out to loved ones or first responders if the need arises. The discussion also touched on how to determine the correct timing for seeking additional assistance from in-home care companies, which offer services ranging from personal care and bathing to meal preparation, laundry, grocery shopping, and light housekeeping. My sister owns one of these types of companies, Wisdom Eldercare, which serves clients throughout the greater Chicagoland area, so I have direct experience with the remarkable level of care and services she and her caregivers provide to their clients. Undoubtedly, these types of services play a crucial role in supporting individuals who wish to maintain their independence at home. While the conversation covered these essential considerations, it surprised me that neither the host nor the guests mentioned the significance of embracing and understanding technology to assist in the aging-in-place journey even once. Although I attempted to bring this perspective into the conversation through a call-in, I unfortunately wasn't selected to participate in the conversation. Since I couldnt bring the technology component of aging in place to that conversation, I'd like to share some of my thoughts and insights on leveraging technology for successful aging in place here. In recent years, the term 'Smart device' has become increasingly prevalent, reflecting a lucrative market where companies aim to capitalize on producing 'smart' products. Everywhere you turn, be it on TV, radio, or the internet, you encounter references to Smart Speakers, Smart Assistants, Smart TVs, Smart Watches, Smart Lights, Smart Doorbells, Smartphones, and more. At its core, a 'Smart' device is simply one that can connect to the internet. The importance lies in their capacity to assist, and I want to highlight a few ways in which they can enhance the aging-in-place experience. Smart Speakers are a category of smart devices that I find to be among the easiest to incorporate into your home, offering a wide range of features that prove immensely beneficial for aging in place. Companies like Apple, Amazon, and Google have introduced Smart Speakers such as Apple HomePod, Amazon Echo, and Google Nest devices, each equipped with their own Digital Assistants Siri and Alexa for example. These devices can answer queries, from simple ones like checking the weather to assisting with more complex tasks like controlling lights, locking, or unlocking doors, accessing security cameras, and even instructing a robot vacuum to clean the kitchen. For Smart Assistants, via Smart Speakers, to interact effectively, the other connected devices with which they are communicating and controlling must also be 'Smart.' Incorporating Smart LED lights, door locks, cameras, and even robot vacuums into your home offers a seamless integration of additional Smart Devices. Picture someone ringing your doorbell, and with a simple voice command through a Smart Speaker, you can engage in a conversation with them, see the visitor, and even unlock the doorall made possible through the wonders of Smart Devices. Or imagine a scenario where your dog has knocked over their bowl of kibble and hundreds of tiny pieces of dog food are scattered all over the kitchen floor. With one simple voice command to your Smart Speaker, you can instruct your robot vacuum to clean it up eliminating the need to get out the broom and dustpan. As we consider the various elements contributing to successful aging in place, let's not overlook the tremendous potential of technology. Integrating Smart Devices into your home can empower you, providing a level of convenience, safety, and independence that complements the more traditional measures previously discussed. Embracing technology ensures that you not only adapt to the changing times but also thrive in them, creating a blend of modern innovation alongside the desire for a comfortable and secure home environment. And, as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology, let us not forget the profound impact it can have on our livesushering in a new era where the golden years are not just lived but lived exceptionally well, thanks to the synergy of thoughtful planning, caregiving, and cutting-edge innovation.
How to Get Your Parent to Accept Help at HomePosted: November 4, 2020 , in Aging , Caregiving , Home Care Planning
Located in the vibrant and friendly community of Cape Coral, The Windsor of Cape Coral offers both assisted living and memory care services. Residents receive personalized assistance that enhances their independence, alongside a vibrant social atmosphere where neighbors become friends. From maintenance-free services to multiple wellness resources, The Windsor of Cape Coral offers a lifestyle that keeps residents feeling their best.As you search for the best senior living residences on the Florida Gulf Coast, look no further than The Windsor at Cape Coral. Offering both assisted living and memory care, every resident enjoys amenities, services, and programs tailored to their preferences and needs. The residence is carefully designed to meet the unique needs of seniors, with features like natural lighting and low-pile carpet to enhance safety and comfort.Assisted living residents benefit from personalized care plans and access to amenities like a bistro, post office, and various gathering spaces. They can also participate in life enrichment activities and events. Memory care residents receive person-centered care in a homelike setting, with specially trained associates and programs to support independence.All residents at The Windsor of Cape Coral enjoy amenities such as transportation, housekeeping, around-the-clock support, and vibrant programs and events. Experience life at The Windsor of Cape Coral by scheduling a visit to meet the team, learn about services, and see available apartments. Join our community and find a place to call home.
Located in the vibrant and friendly community of Cape Coral, The Windsor of Cape Coral offers both assisted living and memory care services. Residents receive personalized assistance that enhances their independence, alongside a vibrant social atmosphere where neighbors become friends. From maintenance-free services to multiple wellness resources, The Windsor of Cape Coral offers a lifestyle that keeps residents feeling their best.As you search for the best senior living residences on the Florida Gulf Coast, look no further than The Windsor at Cape Coral. Offering both assisted living and memory care, every resident enjoys amenities, services, and programs tailored to their preferences and needs. The residence is carefully designed to meet the unique needs of seniors, with features like natural lighting and low-pile carpet to enhance safety and comfort.Assisted living residents benefit from personalized care plans and access to amenities like a bistro, post office, and various gathering spaces. They can also participate in life enrichment activities and events. Memory care residents receive person-centered care in a homelike setting, with specially trained associates and programs to support independence.All residents at The Windsor of Cape Coral enjoy amenities such as transportation, housekeeping, around-the-clock support, and vibrant programs and events. Experience life at The Windsor of Cape Coral by scheduling a visit to meet the team, learn about services, and see available apartments. Join our community and find a place to call home.