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What are some of the best practices for medication management for elderly patients?
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1. Having an organized system for keeping track of medications, such as using a pill box, can help elderly patients take medications properly and keep track of when they need to take each one.
2. Discussing the reasons for taking medications with the elderly patient, including potential side effects and expected outcomes, can help ensure that the patient is educating themselves on proper medication use.
3. Caregivers should ensure that the elderly patient’s medications are properly labeled and stored, and that all dosage instructions are followed.
4. Regular reviews of the elderly patient’s medications should be conducted to identify any potential problems or efficacy concerns.
5. To reduce medication errors and adverse events, elderly patients should only take their medications as prescribed and regularly alert their physician of any medical concerns.
6. To help ensure medication adherence, elderly patients should be counseled on the importance of taking their medications as prescribed and seek support to overcome any underlying issues inhibiting adherence.