There might be many types of medicines that are prescribed, and sometimes it can be hard to manage.
Care tips
Provide simple explanations
Let them know the reasons for taking the medications.
Such as “This is a drug that lowers your blood pressure because you have high blood pressure.” or mention that “This is the medication that the doctor has prescribed for you.” If they refuse, try again later.
Collaborate with the doctor and pharmacists
The person with dementia might refuse to take medication when the medication is difficult to be swallowed or have an unpleasant taste.
Caregivers can consult doctors or pharmacists on a different formulation or shape of medications that can help the person with dementia take the medication easier
eg. Change to a dispersible formulation or to a liquid formulation when they have trouble swallowing
Check with your doctor or pharmacist before crushing any medications, as it may impair the efficacy of the drug and cause difficulty in swallowing
Keep a record of all their medications: name, dosing regimen, starting date, strength, and reason for prescribing the medication
Take medications together
Person with dementia may take their medicine if you take your supplements or your medications with them.
Methods of serving medications
Using a pill box organizer can be helpful – it organizes clearly which day and what time of the day to take the medications
Set up a routine for giving medications.
To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors
– Tia Walker –