As they age, elders are frequently given one or more prescriptions for medications. These drugs can be anything from straightforward vitamin pills to more specialized drugs for long-term conditions. Additionally, extra assistance may be required for seniors residing in retirement communities to remember their daily medication schedules. No matter what kind of prescriptions are written, it’s critical that senior living medication management is handled carefully because mistakes can have unintended but detrimental effects.
Let’s explore 3 practical ways in which assisted living care in North Valley, NC, practices stress-free medication management in their communities.
The Importance of Senior Living Medication Management
Senior living medication management is required for a number of reasons, some of which are related to the aging-related natural declines in daily living abilities that seniors experience. The National Institutes of Health estimate that 40% of individuals 65 and above have memory impairment due to aging. Even minor memory loss can cause confusion about prescriptions or make it impossible to remember to take your medication. Seniors, particularly those in need of memory care, may take the wrong medications at the wrong times as a result of declining sharp eyesight, which can also make it challenging to properly read labels on prescription bottles.
However, one of the main advantages of senior living medication management in assisted living care in North Valley, NC, is that it enables seniors to live their lives independently with little help from a medical professional. Seniors will be more content in their daily lives and able to take advantage of the experiences offered by retirement communities more freely with the peace of mind that senior living medication management provides.
Assisted Living Community and Senior Medication Management
While each retirement community has its own method for managing senior living medications, all follow a few important universal standards to keep their residents safe and healthy.
Making a Complete List of Senior Medications
Caregivers at assisted living facilities make medication lists for seniors who are following strict medication regimens. They watch out for symptoms of illnesses related to medications by knowing what prescriptions residents are taking and understanding the adverse effects those medications can cause.
Educating Residents on Potential Side Effects
In addition to the team members understanding of medications and potential adverse effects, residents are made aware of the risks associated with specific medications as well as any potential hazards associated with combining different medications. As a result of educating the community, seniors will know what to watch out for and who to contact in the event that a medication error is made.
Using Technology to Track Medication Schedules
For bigger retirement communities, an online medication management database is a lifesaver. There are a variety of safe and secure electronic health record system options available, allowing any team member to swiftly and effectively manage medications for any resident at any given moment.
One of the most important aspects for managing medication in senior living at assisted living facilities is the continuous training provided to team members on best practices in all levels of care. Senior living professionals at assisted living care in North Valley, NC, take advantage of a variety of online training programs that provide them with the most recent certifications and protocols in senior living medication administration.
