Forget Me Not

Jokes Corner

The two key challenges that seniors face is polypharmacy (taking lots of pills) and remembering to take them. Don’t panic if you accidentally take the wrong dose, miss doses, or take your medication incorrectly, but do call your doctor and pharmacist if you’re concerned.

Here are some tips to help reduce your risk of a medication error:

• Be consistent: Always take your medication at the same time every day (e.g. when you eat a meal or brush your teeth). • Use reminders: Consider using an alarm for each dose. • Prevent interactions: Many medicines can’t be taken together or

with specific foods/supplements (e.g. citrus fruit). Ask your pharmacist for help with this. • Get a medication review: With every new prescription, ask your pharmacist to review your medication and supplement list. • Ask for advice: If you’re prone to forgetting doses or taking an extra pill now and then, ask your healthcare professional what you should do if this happens. • Be organised: Buy a pill organiser with compartments for different times and days.