Tips from an assisted living facility in Moline on Medication Complication–As a leading assisted living facility in Moline, our staff knows that doctors know best; at least, that is the mentality of most of the United States regarding medication. We have prescribed medicines when we are ill, and we take those accordingly. However, as you get older, the need for certain medicines increases. This is because chronic conditions begin to show up the older we get. However, people don’t talk about the side effects of taking many medications.
Here at our Moline assisted living facility, we know that medication side effects can cause deadly harm, so we watch closely because seniors are especially at risk. Here are some tips on what we can do to stop the threat of medication side effects in our seniors.
What is Polypharmacy?
The National Council on Aging reports that approximately 80% of older adults have at least one chronic disease and 77% have at least two. Research shows that roughly 25% of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, and that number jumps to 46% for those between 70 and 79. This does not include the number of vitamins or over-the-counter medications seniors may be used for simple ailments such as headaches or backaches. The overuse of these could also lead to issues.
Our assisted living facility in Moline wants you to know that there are three different types of polypharmacy:
- Overuse – This is when the patient takes too much of a good drug. The overprescribing of a particular medication.
- Underuse – This is not enough of a specific medication; therefore not the best treatment plan.
- Misuse – This is simply the wrong use for the wrong ailment.
All medications are different, some posing a more significant risk than others. Closely monitoring drug reactions is one way a Moline assisted living facility can help with medication issues. Another problem your senior may have is not knowing when to eliminate potentially dangerous medicine combinations, meaning watching how those over-the-counter medications interact with their prescription ones. The dedicated staff at Park Vista are experts in the care and individualized plans for all residents.
At Park Vista: North Hill, a premier senior retirement community in Moline, we’ll provide a comprehensive list of provided amenities when you tour the grounds. One thing is always a guarantee; you will experience a caring and nurturing environment that will make you feel like an essential part of our Moline community. All our campuses are pet friendly. All Park Vista locations offer a wide range of beauty salons and barber services to ease your stress, and there is even a happy hour at almost every location! Our Park Vista locations offer many options for independent living, assisted living, memory care in Moline, and respite care.
It is an Honor & Privilege to care for
those who once cared for us.
Making It Matter one day at a time.
You can call us at (309) 752-9711 or submit an online contact form for more information.
We look forward to assisting you.