Join The Kensington Falls Church for an informative event focused on senior medication management and the proper use of antibiotics.
Our featured speaker is Dr. Klein, MD, The Kensington Falls Church Medical Director and geriatric medical specialist, who will provide insights and strategies into the unique considerations and best practices for medication use in older adults.
RSVP here to attend “Antibiotics: Are You Misusing Them? Effects, Prevention & Alternatives” on July 25 from 4:30-6 pm GMT.
If you’re currently a caregiver for a loved one and want to learn more about medication management, be sure to attend this educational event and stay informed about all of our upcoming educational sessions.
What is medication management for seniors?
Senior medication management is the careful coordination and administration of prescription and non-prescription medications.
As we age, the likelihood of taking multiple medications increases, which can lead to potential complications such as harmful side effects and drug interactions. Almost 90% of older adults take at least one prescription drug, 80% take at least two, and 36% take at least five.
Effective medication management ensures that seniors take the right medications at the right times, thereby maintaining their health and improving their quality of life.
The complexities of managing multiple medications include understanding how different drugs interact with each other, monitoring for side effects, and adjusting dosages as needed.
Physical changes in older adults, such as weight loss, and decreased liver and kidney function, can affect how medications are processed in the body, necessitating careful oversight by healthcare professionals.
Important considerations in senior medication management
By following these guidelines, caregivers and seniors can manage medications safely and effectively, reducing the risk of complications and improving overall health outcomes.
Medication contraindications:
- Avoid combining blood thinners: For example, taking aspirin with warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Steer clear of certain antidepressants with heart medications: Some antidepressants can interfere with the effectiveness of heart medications.
- Beware of antihistamines and anticholinergics: These can cause confusion, increase risk for falls, blurred vision, constipation, and problems urinating in seniors.
Combinations to avoid:
- Grapefruit juice and certain medications: Grapefruit juice can interfere with the enzymes that metabolize certain drugs, leading to potentially dangerous levels of medication in the body.
- Calcium supplements with certain antibiotics: Calcium can reduce the absorption of some antibiotics, making them less effective.
- NSAIDs and hypertension medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can increase blood pressure and reduce the effectiveness of hypertension medications.
Big no-nos for seniors in medication management:
- Self-prescribing: Never adjust dosages or add new medications without consulting a healthcare provider.
- Mixing alcohol with medications: Alcohol can interact dangerously with many medications, leading to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and increased risk of falls.
- Ignoring expiration dates: Taking expired medications can be ineffective or harmful.
- Skipping doses, doubling doses, or stopping medications abruptly: This can lead to a worsening of the condition being treated or withdrawal symptoms. If you missed a dose, don’t double it the next time you take your medicine.
- Not informing healthcare providers of all medications being taken: Always provide a full list of prescriptions, OTC medications, and supplements to all healthcare providers to avoid harmful interactions.
The proper use of antibiotics in seniors
Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, particularly in the elderly, who may be more susceptible to infections.
It’s very important to adhere to prescribed antibiotic courses, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Stopping antibiotics prematurely can lead to the infection returning in a more severe form and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Caregivers play an important role in ensuring that antibiotics are used correctly. This includes following the prescribed dosage and schedule, monitoring for side effects, and communicating with healthcare providers about any concerns. Proper antibiotic use not only helps treat infections effectively but also protects the overall health of the senior population.
Common types of antibiotics
- Amoxicillin: Used for ear infections, strep throat, and pneumonia.
- Ciprofloxacin: Treats urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bacterial diarrhea.
- Doxycycline: Used for respiratory infections and acne.
- Azithromycin: Treats respiratory infections and skin infections.
- Cephalexin: Used for skin infections and UTIs.
Best practices for caregivers in medication management
Caregivers are vital in managing medications for seniors. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Organize medications: Use pill boxes, reminders, and medication management apps to ensure medications are taken at the correct times.
- Maintain accurate medication lists: Keep an up-to-date list of all medications, including dosages and schedules. Review this list regularly with healthcare providers.
- Understand drug interactions: Be aware of potential interactions between different medications, supplements, and foods. Consult healthcare professionals to avoid harmful combinations.
- Recognize side effects: Monitor for any adverse reactions to medications and report them to a healthcare provider immediately.
- Communicate clearly: Maintain open lines of communication with healthcare providers, pharmacists, and other caregivers to ensure a coordinated approach to medication management.
The role of 24/7 nursing care in medication management
The Kensington Falls Church offers 24/7 nursing care, providing residents with continuous support and supervision. This round-the-clock care ensures that medications are administered correctly and on time, reducing the risk of errors and complications.
Immediate attention can be given to any adverse reactions or side effects, ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents.
Join The Kensington Falls Church Family
The Kensington Falls Church is a premier assisted living and memory care community located in Falls Church, Virginia specializing in dementia and Alzheimer’s care.
With expert medication management practices, we ensure medications are used effectively and safely, enhancing health outcomes and overall well-being of our residents.
Our loving team, specializing in all-day dining and two levels of memory care communities, provides comprehensive support from the early to late stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Our Promise is to “love and care for your family as we do our own,” giving families peace of mind knowing their loved ones receive meticulous care from our dedicated professionals.
Contact us today to join our waitlist or sign up for upcoming events to learn more about how we prioritize the well-being of our residents through dedicated care and proper medication use.