To many, finding the time for self-care is a luxury. This is even truer for those doing their best to keep themselves in optimal health. From managing mental health, incorporating exercise, to keeping track of meds, things can get hectic.
Often, people find themselves skipping or missing a dose or two. This isn’t ideal, especially for those who depend on their medications to stay well. If this happens to you, then it’s high time for medication management to be a priority.
Forgetting to take meds can be a hassle at best and perilous at worst. Whether it’s you or your loved ones, make sure that they stay on top of things. Here’s a complete guide to making medication management a simpler process.
1. Talk to Your Doctor
Before anything else, make sure that you talk to a specialist first. Medication management can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Your doctor knows what’s best for you, and they can give you advice on how and when to take your meds.
Additionally, certain prescriptions medications do not mix well with others. It’s crucial to know what can and cannot mix. There are meds that, when taken together or with certain drinks, may cause adverse side effects.
Consulting a specialist first facilitates a better understanding of your medications. It’ll also help you expect the worst in case you make a mistake.
2. Make a List
With the help of your doctor or carer, make a complete list of your prescriptions and medicine. This can help not only when taking them but when buying medication as well. Categorize and label your list accordingly.
Adding the date of purchase and when to take them is one of the most basic ways to do this. You can also try to categorize them. Many people do so by writing down and labeling their meds as “morning,” “afternoon,” or “evening” pills.
It helps them keep track of when to take them. Some people even opt to buy pill containers to go with their list. Doing so is a handy solution not only when you travel but for every day, too.
3. Develop a Routine
Developing a routine is something that takes time. Don’t let this discourage you, though – it’s never too late to start especially when it comes to your health and wellness.
While a complete 180 might be too overwhelming for some, taking small steps will get you where you need to be. Start with something minor, like organizing your meds in a pillbox every night.
Be sure to put it somewhere you can see, like your bedside table or the kitchen counter. To be more consistent with your medicine intake try taking along with something you always do. A good example is after breakfast, or as soon as you finish brushing your teeth.
Some even choose to take their meds before or after feeding their pets. Tying your medication to daily activities keeps you responsible and focused.
4. Tackle Difficulties
Part of medication management is understanding the reasons why you forget to take them. Target the root cause (or causes) and determine why you miss your meds. Learning to curb these challenges promotes a more responsible perspective with your meds.
For instance, some people miss or skip meds since they forget to refill prescriptions. Common excuses are that there isn’t a pharmacy nearby or that the place closed early. Finding a workaround to this problem through online RX is a good solution.
If it all boils down to memory, then it might be time to get apps or programs to keep you on track.
5. Set Reminders
It’s one thing to know when to take meds; it’s another to actually remember to. If this happens often, then start setting reminders. Be it a sticky note posted on your fridge or an alarm from your phone or app.
Some mobile phones and other interactive tech even have features like digital assistants. You can program them to remind you to take meds. Taking advantage of these features means one less excuse to not follow through with this tip.
If forgetfulness is the issue, and all else fails, you can also ask someone to call or check up on you at a certain time.
6. Ask for Professional Help
To many, medication management can be difficult because life can get in the way. It’s a different case for the elderly or those with terminal illnesses. Employing professional help to manage an onslaught of meds might be the only way.
This is especially true if dementia and Alzheimer’s are in the picture. Although hiring personal carers to manage medication can be expensive, sometimes it’s the best approach. Qualified and trained individuals have the skills and patience to handle the situation better.
They understand how complicated the matter is, and adjust accordingly. Help from a professional carer is always an advantage. Especially when constant communication with a healthcare provider is necessary.
7. Stay Accountable
Don’t neglect your health. At the end of the day, it’s all about pushing yourself to be more responsible. It’s easier to chalk it up to excuses, and that you’d make up for things. Some people even think that double dosing to “catch up” will do.
Never do this to yourself, as it puts you at risk of overdosing among other things. If this is a habit you’ve fallen into, it’s best that you break it, and do better. If keeping accountability is difficult, then don’t hesitate to reach out.
You can always ask your friends or family to remind you. If you need to go as far as having your local pharmacy to hand you your meds out daily, then make sure to go regularly. Don’t skip days; remember that your health is on the line.
Medication Management Made Easy
Don’t let anything stop you from putting your health first. Make sure that you take your medications daily and on time. Medication management isn’t only for the forgetful, it’s for everyone.
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