Taking medication as prescribed can be difficult, especially when several medications are scheduled at different times. A familiar question is:
“Have I already taken my tablets today?”
You are not alone. It is estimated that prescribed medications are not taken correctly in about half of the cases. Taking medication as prescribed is an important part of treatment. This is because studies show that incorrect medication intake leads to an increased number of hospital admissions.
Why medication routines can become harder in later life
Difficulty following a medication plan does not mean someone is unreliable. Several factors often play a part. For example, mild forgetfulness and the hustle and bustle of everyday life can lead to medications being taken irregularly. When someone does not experience obvious symptoms day to day, a missed dose may not have an immediately noticeable effect.
About 30% of people over 65 take four or more medications. Taking several medications can quickly become confusing. In older people with limited mobility and vision, long medication leaflets and packaging that is difficult to open are often cited as obstacles to proper intake. Suitable aids can help support independence at home.
9 practical tips for a safe medication routine
1. Keep an up-to-date medication plan.
Create a detailed medication plan together with your doctor. Include each medication, its active ingredient, the prescribed dose, the scheduled time, and any additional instructions, such as whether it should be taken before a meal.
2. Always store your medications in the same place.
A fixed, clearly visible place away from heat and moisture will save you a long search.
3. Link medication times to existing routines.
Breakfast, then medication, then coffee - fixed routines like this make taking medication a natural part of the day, so you no longer have to think much about it.
4. Use a pill organizer.
For uncomplicated medication plans, a simple pill organizer is often sufficient. A compact pill organizer can be useful if you are often out and about. A 7-day pill organizer, on the other hand, is suitable for preparing medications for a week in advance. For multiple daily doses, an automatic medication dispenser can be a great help. It makes the scheduled dose available at the programmed time and keeps the remaining doses secured.
5. Use reminders.
Whether an alarm clock, smartphone, app, or smart medication dispenser: all these aids support you in taking your medications on time. You can also ask relatives to remind you to take your medications. However, for family caregivers, this can mean an additional mental burden alongside household, family, and career. Connected medication dispensers can keep family members informed through status updates, making it easier to follow up when needed.
6. Keep multiple medications organized.
If you take several medications, keep the blister pack currently in use separate from your spare supply. Set a regular weekly time, such as Sunday evening, to refill the pill organizer or medication dispenser and check that you have enough medication.
7. Review your medication plan regularly.
Changes to the medication plan may only be made in consultation with the treating doctor.
8. Watch for difficulties taking medication.
This includes tablets that cannot be pushed out of the blister pack, swallowing difficulties, mix-ups, and simply forgetting. Such signs must be taken seriously before they lead to bigger problems.
9. Consider assistive technology.
When classic aids reach their limits, a smart medication dispenser can support you with taking your medication. It reminds you at the scheduled time, while lockable compartments help restrict access to medication intended for later.
When a smart medication dispenser can be useful
A medication dispenser may be useful if doses are often forgotten, family members live far away, or several medications are scheduled at different times. It can also support a more independent routine and help family caregivers reduce routine check-in calls.
Memio Go brings these features together: it makes the prepared dose accessible at the programmed time, provides light and sound reminders, and shares status updates through the free companion app. This supports a more independent routine and helps family caregivers stay informed.