It’s estimated that up to 40% of the elderly take more than five different medications a day.

With this number being so high it’s important to help our clients or elderly parents or loved ones take their medications properly and regularly.

Life After 60 recommends the following:

Use a pill organizer
- There are many different styles from which to choose depending on the needs of the individual. A pill organizer should be easy to look at to tell whether or not the pills were taken. It also should be easy to access. However, many of these pill organizers are not child proof and need to be kept in a secure place.
Make a dosage schedule
- Make a list of all your medications, when and how you take them. Create a check list so you can mark when you’ve taken them.
- Set aside time each week to fill medication organizer for the coming week.
Check prescriptions labels carefully
- Dosages change and medication expires. It’s a good idea to read the label with each new prescription. This also helps you know when it’s time for a refill.

Often our clients or family members don’t feel well or get confused about their medications and it becomes necessary to gently offer to help. Taking a little time and helping them organization their medication can help them stay safe and feeling well.