a simple, inexpensive pill box or a medication reminder device. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to recommend a way to help you remember to take your medications correctly – e.g.The reasons why are multifaceted, ranging from the patient’s lack of understanding or acceptance of why their medications are required and how they should be taken to the cost of the medications.
Is it any wonder that doctors and pharmacists stress the importance of taking medications as directed? Yet as many as 50% of patients do not follow their prescribed regimen, with the elderly being less likely to adhere than average. Any of these risks can lead to increased discomfort, inadequate disease prevention, hospitalization, admission to a nursing home, or worse.2 Complicated medication schedules can cause missed doses, incorrect dosages, or even taking medicines at the wrong times. Studies also show that the more medications we take, the greater the risk of a fall or medical emergency because we are more sensitive to potential side effects and adverse drug interactions. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, 66% of seniors take 5 or more medications, and 25% take 10 or more.1 Statistics show that as we age we take more medications than the general population. Many older adults depend on medications to remain healthy, overcome illness, manage chronic conditions and continue living independently. Managing medications correctly is key to living independently.
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