On average, people over the age of 65 take over 14 medications a year. That puts them at higher risk of over medication and negative drug side effects.
According to the CDC, people over 65 are also twice as likely to go to the emergency room because of a harmful drug reaction and 7 times more likely to be hospitalized.
Tips to help reduce over medication and drug reactions:
1. Ask before taking an OTC – Always check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking an over the counter drug, vitamin, or supplement because they could interact with prescription medications.
2. Make a List and Keep it Updated – Always keep an updated list of all the medications your older adult takes, the doses, and when they are taken.
3. Review your medications – Once or twice a year, ask your older adult’s primary doctor to review the entire list of medications, supplements, and vitamins.
Latest posts by Home Care Plus (see all)
- Making Strides of Charleston - October 22, 2021
- Watching out for Scammers - May 5, 2021
- Sleep and Tiredness - April 13, 2021
