Did you take your pills this morning, or was that yesterday? Managing multiple medications can get confusing, especially for seniors in Toronto with chronic conditions. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, nearly two-thirds of Canadian seniors take five or more different prescription medications. With so many pills in the mix, it’s easy to see how things can get confusing! Here are 3 tips to help you streamline your medication routine:
Tip 1: Create a Medication Schedule
A medication schedule is only effective if it aligns with your daily habits. Instead of simply writing down when to take your medications, try associating it with an existing routine, such as breakfast, lunchtime, or before bed. For example:
- Morning Routine: Take your morning medication with your breakfast to ensure consistency. Set your pill bottle next to your coffee maker or breakfast table to serve as a visual cue.
- Digital Reminders: Set recurring alarms or reminders on your phone at specific times. Some apps, like Medisafe or MyTherapy, not only remind you to take your medication but also keep a log of what you’ve taken.
- Habit Stacking: Pair medication with a habit you already do daily, like brushing your teeth. This increases the likelihood of remembering.
By turning medication management into a habit that fits your current routine, it will become easier to stick to in the long term.
By turning medication management into a habit that fits your current routine, it will become easier to stick to in the long term.
Tip 2: Use a Pill Organizer
A pill organizer can be a lifesaver— Did you know that improper medication use leads to approximately 200,000 emergency room visits in Canada each year? A pill organizer can help reduce the risk of taking the wrong medication or missing a dose. Consider these advanced tips:
- Choose the Right Organizer: If you’re taking multiple medications at different times, opt for a multi-compartment pill organizer that allows for morning, afternoon, and evening doses.
- Refill on a Set Day: Pick one day of the week to refill your organizer. Sunday evenings, for example, can become your routine “refill day,” ensuring you’re ready for the week ahead.
- Pre-sort with a Pharmacist: If sorting pills feels overwhelming, you can always contact us, and our pharmacists will help you sort your situation.
A pill organizer is helpful, but it can be customized to fit your specific needs.
Tip 3: Proper Medication Storage and Disposal
The World Health Organization states that improperly stored medications can lose their effectiveness, making them less potent or even dangerous. Proper storage isn’t just about location—it’s also about creating a routine for checking your medications. Here’s how to ensure they remain effective and safe:
- Designate a Medication Station: Set aside a space in your home for your medications. A kitchen cabinet or nightstand drawer works well, as long as it’s cool and dry. Avoid leaving them in the bathroom where humidity can degrade them.
- Track Expiration Dates: Once a month, review your medications to ensure they haven’t expired. Set a reminder on your phone or add it to your calendar. Bring expired or unused medications to Dundas West Pharmacy for safe disposal.
- Refrigeration Alerts: For medications that need refrigeration, post a note on your fridge as a reminder. Check with your pharmacist if you’re unsure about which medications require cold storage.
Developing a routine for where you store and check your medications will prevent missed doses or accidentally taking expired medications.
Stay Organized, Stay Healthy
Medication management doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By setting up a schedule, using a pill organizer, and storing your medications correctly, you can make sure you’re getting the most out of your treatment.
Visit Dundas West Pharmacy in Etobicoke or call us at +1(416)3689143 We’re committed to supporting your health and well-being with personalized advice and services. Stay organized, stay healthy, and take control of your medication routine today!
Visit Dundas West Pharmacy in Etobicoke or call us at +1(416)3689143 We’re committed to supporting your health and well-being with personalized advice and services. Stay organized, stay healthy, and take control of your medication routine today!
