Forgetting to take a medication might seem trivial—after all, it’s just one little pill! But missed doses can have significant consequences for both short-term and long-term health outcomes. Whether it’s one pill or ten, maintaining consistency can be challenging, especially with multiple daily doses, specific time intervals, and changing dosages. Keeping track of everything is no small task!
Approximately 50 percent of medications prescribed for chronic illnesses are not taken as directed, contributing to increased emergency department visits and hospital stays, and leading to poorer health outcomes.
The Importance of Consistency
Taking medication consistently helps achieve a “steady state” in the body, where the amount of medication absorbed equals the amount metabolized and excreted. Disruptions to this steady state can negatively affect the body, causing ongoing side effects or even withdrawal symptoms.
There are various reasons why patients might not take their medications as prescribed. Some prefer natural remedies, others dislike the reminder of illness, and many stop taking medication once they feel better, assuming they’re no longer ill. For chronic conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease, this is particularly concerning. Busy lifestyles and distractions can also interfere with adherence.
For aging adults, additional challenges such as vision loss, memory problems, confusion over instructions, and the complexity of filling pill boxes can lead to poor adherence. As a result, many patients may give up trying to follow their doctor’s instructions.
Making Adherence Easier
- Keep a List: Maintain a paper or digital list to easily double-check medication, dose, timing, and any updates from your doctor.
- Learn About Your Medications: Understanding your medical condition and how the medication works can motivate you to maintain your routine.
- Use a Pill Box: Color-coded daily pill boxes can help track which pills to take and when. Filling the box once a week can be less overwhelming than managing multiple bottles daily.
- Set a Reminder: Program your phone with reminders for medication compliance, especially if timing is crucial.
- Download an App: Many apps are available to act as medication lists, reminders, and pill organizers. Check your app store for options.
- Talk with Your Doctor: Discuss once-a-day or extended-release options to simplify your routine.
Sometimes, extra help is needed. Talk with a family member or friend about your medication struggles, they may assist with setting up your pill box or programming your phone with reminders. Caregivers can also provide regular prompts and reminders. Finding the right strategy can help you take control of your health.
To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today or fill out the contact form on our website.