If used properly, over-the-counter and prescription medications can keep you healthy. Many senior patients take several different medications daily. Sometimes, prescriptions are from multiple physicians, making an elder in home vulnerable to side effects, or even accidental poisonings. So how do we provide senior assistance in regards to medication safety? Many pharmacies are now using automated systems for filling prescriptions. An automated system can warn a senior of a potentially dangerous drug interaction. In addition, following The 7 Tips for Safe Medication Use is a proactive approach to medication safety among seniors.

1.    Learn about your medications. Read the labels and package inserts and follow the instructions for use. Ask your doctor if you have any questions or if you don’t understand.
2.    Be sure to speak with all of your doctors about your medical conditions, any health concerns and be sure to inform them of all the medications you take. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter and herbal medications, vitamins and supplements. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
3.    Keep track of any side effects and inform your doctor immediately if your symptoms change.
4.    Keep all scheduled appointments with your doctors, including appointments for blood work or other monitoring tests.
5.    Use a pill box, calendar, or writing tablet to keep track of what medications to take and when to take them. Also write down information that your doctor gives you about your medications.
6.    Take someone such as a friend or relative along with you to doctor appointments if you think you may need help remembering doctor instructions.
7.    Have a “Medication Check-Up” at least once per year. Go through the cabinet(s) where you keep medications. Throw away old or expired medications. Review with your doctor all the medications you currently take, including over-the-counter or herbal medications.
8.    Keep all medications out of sight and reach of children or other elderly in home that has dementia.

Finding elder in home care has become rather complicated in the past few years, especially in the South Jersey area. There are so many companies providing residential home care services that choosing a good, quality provider can be very difficult.  That is why CareGrade was developed. We provide a FREE senior care adviser who guides the individuals searching for home health care services. They first learn what senior assistance is required and what the unique needs of each senior are, then offer several options for the families. All senior care companies which are discussed have been personally reviewed by the adviser. These reviews, along with consumer reviews are offered to each client to help them make the best decision possible.

The use of both professional and consumer reviews is unique to CareGrade. This allows each consumer the ability read unbiased reviews for in home elder care providers prior to making their decision. After all, it is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make.