| As we age, one key ingredient for maintaining
our health is our ability to play an active role in our medical
care. This includes becoming knowledgeable about our health status
and medical needs, asking informed questions of healthcare providers,
and ensuring that all the healthcare professionals we see are up
to date on every aspect of our care. In addition, the pharmacist
takes an important position in patient health. The pharmacist coordinates
prescribed medications and can educate about their impact on our
health.
Older people commonly use multiple medications requiring intricately
timed regimens to treat multiple chronic conditions. Some of these
medications can interact with others, or with certain foods or herbal
treatments. Problems can multiply with daily habits like smoking
or drinking. The aging process itself can produce effects, altering
the way a drug will act in the body or the way the body will absorb
or metabolize a drug. As consumers, older adults face decisions
about using over-the-counter medications, obtaining medications
for less money, and choosing alternative treatments (Dianne Tobias,
PharmD, CGP; ASA).
- The older population takes more medications prescribed
by more providers for more conditions than its younger counterparts.
- The physiology of aging affects how the older body absorbs,
utilizes and eliminates medications, as well as how medications
act in the older adult.
- Older individuals are often challenged by sensory changes,
such as vision and hearing loss, coupled with complex medication
regimens and barriers to accessible and affordable therapy.
Resources
Medication Management programs on education, counseling or assistance
with individualized care plans are available through Area
Agencies On Aging.
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Health
& Wellness