Remembering to take a prescribed medication in the correct dosages is imperative for the medications to be effective in treating the condition for which they have been prescribed. Missing scheduled doses – even just one scheduled dose – of certain medications could have severe effects on the body, some of which may result in death.
Forgetting to take medication is a common problem among the elderly. Given the confusion of old age in most cases and perhaps the onset of dementia in others, missing a dose of medication some point is almost a certainty. Studies have reported that even healthy Americans over the age of 50 take an average of four different medications per day. This average more than doubles in people who have underlying health conditions. With the number of prescription medications that America’s elderly population is taking, it would be quite easy for them and caregivers alike to become confused from time to time. Finding a system that works well for their personal situation is key.
There are several products on the market today that are designed to keep track of medication schedules and sound an alarm when the dosage time arrives. Prices and features vary greatly between products, most of which are readily available at local medical supply stores. Here are some of the more popular varieties.
Medical Reminder Watches
These watches are designed to alert patients when it’s time for their medications by sounding an alarm, emitting vibrations, and scrolling a text message across the faces. Most of them have multiple alarm settings, which allows the watches to be programmed to alert patients to different dosage times throughout the day. Some varieties also store important medical information. The retail price fro these watches starts around $80.
Pagers
These pagers are designed to be worn on the body, such as attached to a belt or clothing. They can be programmed with several different alarm times and will emit an alarm and vibration when each dosage time arrives. These pagers retail for around $75.
Reminder services
Some companies are now offering medication reminder services to their clients. These companies send out an automated message to their clients, via a telephone, which reminds them that it is time for their medication. There is a monthly fee for these kinds of services, which varies depending on the frequency of the reminder calls that will be needed. Please note – these services are automated. Live attendants do not make the phone calls.
Home Care Providers
By using an agency like ourselves to provide home care, you will know that your loved one always has someone there to physically remind them, as well as looking after their general well-being. Home care can be scheduled to coincide with the taking of medication and, of course, other important requirements.
