Medication Safety for Seniors: Tips to Prevent Common Errors

Why Seniors Are More Vulnerable to Medication Errors

Many older adults take several medications to manage different health conditions. That may include prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements.

The more medications someone takes, the harder it can be to keep track of what to take and when. There’s also a greater chance of side effects or drug interactions.

Age can add another challenge. Changes in the kidneys, liver, digestive system and body weight can affect how medications work in the body. Vision or memory changes can also make it harder to read labels, recognize pills or remember whether a dose has already been taken.

Coordinating care between several doctors and pharmacies can make medication management even more complicated.

Common Types of Medication Errors in Older Adults

Medication errors can happen in several ways. Some of the most common include:

• Missing a dose: A senior may forget to take a medication or lose track of their usual routine.
• Taking a dose twice: Someone may take a medication and then forget they already took it.
• Taking medication at the wrong time: Some medicines need to be taken at certain times or with specific instructions.
• Mixing medications that interact: Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements can sometimes interact with each other.
• Confusing similar medications: Pills or packages that look alike can be easy to mix up, especially for someone with vision problems.

Even medications that have been taken safely for years may need to be adjusted as a person gets older.

Warning Signs of Medication Errors

Sometimes, the first clue that something is wrong is a change in how your loved one looks or acts.

Possible warning signs include:

• New or worsening confusion
• Increased dizziness or drowsiness
• Unexplained falls
• Sudden changes in mood or behavior
• Prescriptions that haven’t been filled or refilled
• More or fewer pills remaining than expected
• New symptoms after starting a medication or changing a dose

Some medication side effects can look like other health problems. For example, certain medications may cause dizziness, sleepiness or memory problems.

If you notice a sudden or concerning change, contact your loved one’s healthcare provider.

Tips for Preventing Medication Errors

A good medication routine doesn’t need to be complicated. The goal is to make it as easy as possible to know what needs to be taken and when.

Keep an updated medication list. Write down all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and supplements. Include the dose, when it’s taken and why it’s needed. Share the list with doctors, pharmacists and caregivers.

Use a pill organizer. A weekly organizer can make it easier to see whether a medication has already been taken. Make sure medications are appropriate for an organizer before removing them from their original packaging.

Set reminders. Phone alarms, calendars, written schedules or medication reminder apps can help seniors stay on track.

Schedule medication reviews. Ask a doctor or pharmacist to regularly review all medications, including over-the-counter products and supplements. This is especially important after a hospital stay or when a new medication is added.

Keep the routine simple. If a medication schedule has become difficult to follow, talk with a healthcare provider. There may be safe ways to make the schedule easier to manage.

Ask for caregiver support when needed. A family member or caregiver can provide reminders, help with refills and watch for changes that could point to a medication problem.

How You Can Help Your Loved One

Helping with medications can be a delicate balance. Your loved one may value their independence and may not want someone taking over a routine they’ve managed for years.

Start with support instead of control. You might help create a medication list, set up reminders or check that prescriptions have been refilled. A shared calendar can also make it easier for everyone to know when medications or appointments are coming up.

As your loved one’s needs change, you can gradually provide more oversight. Regular check-ins can make medication management safer while still allowing them to stay involved in their own care.

Medication Assistance and Support from Embassy Healthcare

Sometimes, medication management becomes too much for a senior or family caregiver to handle alone. Skilled nursing care can provide another layer of oversight while making daily life easier for everyone involved.

Embassy Healthcare offers care and support for older adults with a range of needs. Our team can provide the hands-on assistance and supervision residents need as part of their daily care.

Explore Embassy Healthcare’s services and communities to find the level of care that fits your loved one’s needs.