Drug Reactions in Older Adults

Medications help prevent and treat illness and disease, but increasingly among seniors in Glendale, AZ and around the nation, certain medications are causing adverse drug reactions. Every year in the U.S., approximately 100,000 people over age 65 receive hospital treatment for harmful medication reactions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that just four blood thinner and diabetes medications lead to two-thirds of hospitalizations among older Americans.

Anyone in Glendale, AZ can encounter dangerous drug reactions or an accidental overdose, but older adults are at higher risk. Seniors typically face multiple health conditions that call for multiple medications. The more medications you take, the more likely it is for these varied drugs to negatively interact. Lean body mass, fluid levels, and kidney and liver function decrease with age and affect how your body absorbs, metabolizes and eliminates drugs. In addition, vision, hearing and memory problems can influence proper medication management. 

Certain foods and beverages, such as grapefruit, caffeine and alcohol, can alter how drugs work, particularly in older adults. Over-the-counter medicines, supplements and herbal products also can impact a drug’s effectiveness. Your key to successful and safe medication usage is to take the right dosage for the right medical condition for the right period of time. To safeguard yourself from harmful drug reactions, follow these suggestions:

• Ask questions to understand how medications should be taken. Ask your doctor or pharmacist in Glendale, AZ to provide written instructions.
• Use only one pharmacy in Glendale, AZ so your pharmacists can be more familiar with all your medications.
• Work with your doctor to recognize and report potential side effects of each medication you take.
• Team up with relatives and caregivers in Glendale, AZ to ensure you take appropriate doses.
• At least twice a year, ask your physician to review and adjust the dosage of your medications, and discontinue any unnecessary ones. 

How do you manage your loved one’s daily diet and medication regimen?

Right at Home, Inc. is your local and international expert for issues related to caring for your loved one and is dedicated to keeping you informed about home care. Right at Home in Glendale, AZ offers in-home care and assistance so your loved one can continue living independently and enjoying a vibrant life. Our caregivers are screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering your home so you can trust us with the caregiving while you focus on your loved one.