Medication Safety in Aging Patient

Medication Safety in Aging Patient
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Medication Safety in Aging Patient
Patient safety is one of the critical concepts underpinning better and quality health outcomes. One area of focus for patient safety revolves around medication practice, especially among aging patients. Older adults need to be extra cautious while taking prescribed and over-the-counter medications. The senior adults or aging population tend to use more medications, leading to increased medication-related safety concerns.
Medication safety tips that are easily understandable should be made accessible to older adults. Some of the core medication safety tips include: taking medication as prescribed by the healthcare provider, keeping a record of medication list, getting ware of possible drug interactions and side effects, reviewing medication with a physician, proper planning of medication refills, and proper drug storage. Other tips include placing all medication in one location, having clear instructions and labeling on medication, installing medication tracking and reminder system, and provide extra support for the patient with cognitive-related impairment. All these tips would help older adults prevent medicated-related errors.
Medication safety amongst older adults is part of collaborative practice. The patient, family, and healthcare providers all work together in providing drug-related services that are free from harm. Information about drug regimens, adverse drug interactions, unwanted side effects should be shared with patients, caretakers, and healthcare providers who play centric roles in managing such a patient. For instance, it is critical for a patient who has impaired memory to engage caretakers or famil...