It isn’t unusual for a senior to have several different doctors with different specialties. Because these physicians may each prescribe different medications, it is important that each physician know exactly what medications the senior is taking in order to avoid complications.

Make a list of all the medicines the senior is taking, including:

  • Prescription drugs
  • Non-prescription drugs such as aspirin, antihistamines, vitamins, supplements

Make a note of:

  • How often each medicine/vitamin/supplement is taken
  • Who the prescribing physician is
  • Any side effects, unwanted feelings or symptoms

Be sure to ask:

  • What is the name of the medication? How do you spell it?
  • Why do you want me to take it?
  • Are there foods, drinks, other medications or activities I should avoid while taking this medication?
  • Should I take my medicine at meals or between meals? Do I need to take the medicine on an empty stomach or with food or a glass of water?
  • What should I do if I forget to take the medicine and miss a dose?
  • When will the medicine begin to work?

Keep track of all of these questions and answers in a notebook for future reference. This information can prove invaluable to a senior managing multiple health conditions. For further information on how to make the most of doctors’ visits, contact Live Free Home Health Care, a dedicated provider of senior care services in Concord and the surrounding areas. We can help manage a senior’s medications and also have experience in seamlessly arranging, coordinating and monitoring a multitude of services to make in-home care a comfortable, successful experience based on individual needs and desires.