Can Not Taking Prescribed Medications Harm Aging Adults’ Health?

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Should a Senior Ever Avoid Taking a Prescribed Medication in Des Moines, IA

When providing care for your senior loved one, it’s important to make sure all of his or her medications are being managed properly. There may be occasions when one or more medications are doing more harm than good and need to be taken out of the equation. If your loved one needs to stop taking a medication, discuss his or her options with a doctor first, as suddenly stopping a long-term or important prescription can also cause serious side effects.

Can a New Prescription Be Taken Alongside Other Medications?

Many seniors visit a variety of medical professionals, which may result in multiple prescriptions. Always check with your loved one’s primary physician before he or she takes a medication prescribed by another doctor, as the new medication may interact with a prescription he or she is already taking. Calling the doctor or the nurse is often sufficient to get the green light to take a new prescription. Professional in-home caregivers can assist seniors with a variety of essential tasks, including providing timely medication reminders. Homecare experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.

Are Multiple Medications Causing Too Many Side Effects?

The side effects of medications are typically minor when only taking one or two prescriptions, but many seniors take several medications each day. In some cases, the cumulative effects of taking multiple prescriptions increase the risk of falls and other accidents. If your loved one’s medications make it difficult to safely perform daily tasks, consider talking to his or her doctor to determine which medications are absolutely necessary to maintain your loved one’s health. Family caregivers are often too busy to remind their loved ones when to take their medications. In such cases, professional caregivers can be of great help. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior family member and are looking for professional in-home care, Des Moines Home Care Assistance should be your top choice. Our dedicated and compassionate caregivers are committed to helping older adults manage their health and enjoy a higher quality of life in the golden years.

Has Your Loved One’s Quality of Life Decreased Because of Side Effects?

Some medications interfere with the ability to live a fulfilling life. For instance, medications can cause side effects that include fatigue or dizziness, which can make it difficult to enjoy normal activities. Discuss the side effects with the doctor if they’re affecting your loved one’s quality of life. Often, there are alternative medications available that provide the same benefits but may have fewer side effects.

Is the Medication Affecting His or Her Mental & Emotional Health?

Some medications, including antidepressants and medications for Alzheimer’s disease, can cause changes in mental or emotional wellbeing. For instance, restlessness, sleeplessness, and anxiety may occur when taking some types of prescription medications. If your loved one becomes depressed, or if other mental or emotional changes occur after he or she starts a medication, talk to his or her doctor about other options. Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Des Moines seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. Home Care Assistance will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (515) 264-2438 to learn more about our customized care plans.

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