Some seniors have trouble swallowing a tablet or capsule due to health conditions. They try to chew, crush, break or mix the tablet or capsule in food or drink. This can cause a negative effect because some are long-acting medicines that will be released too fast. Other medicines either will not work properly or could make the person sick.
Solutions:
- Don't Crush Pills. Never chew, crush, break or mix the tablet or capsule in fluid unless the doctor or pharmacist says it is all right to do so.
- Ask for Liquids. If your parent has trouble swallowing medicines, ask the doctor or pharmacist if the drug comes in a liquid.
Hearing problems can impede an elderly person's ability to hear instructions that the doctor or pharmacist is saying.
Solutions:
- Get Instructions in Writing. If your parent has trouble hearing, talk to them about not being embarrassed about their hearing loss. If they can't hear what the doctor or pharmacist is saying, ask them to repeat it.
- Use Hearing Devices. Make sure your parent wears their hearing aid to doctor's appointments and pharmacies.
Many elderly people live alone. Several studies have shown that people who live alone more often fail to comply with medication regimens.
Solution:
- Get In-Home Help. If your parent lives alone, consider home health care. Tell the agency that your parent needs help with taking their medications, and inform the agency of the elder's required medication schedule.
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