One of the challenges of taking care of those in their golden years is dealing with older adults who refuse medication. It is important to understand the reasons behind their refusal and to provide as much support as possible. The problem is made worse when many older adults have various health issues, making them dependent on medications for their daily lives.
Fortunately, there are various ways to deal with this issue. Particularly, retirement communities need to have protocols in place that handle how such refusals. The following is an overview of how senior living in Boyce, TX deals with residents who refuse medication.
Educate Them
One of the most important steps in dealing with residents who refuse medication is to talk to them and understand their reasons for not taking the medication. In some cases, older adults may be concerned about potential side effects, or they may simply not understand why they need to take the medication. It is important to take the time to listen to their concerns and provide them with information that is easy to understand.
Understand Them
In addition to listening to the resident’s concerns, it is also important to ensure that the medication is properly prescribed and that it is taken as directed. This means that residents should always be given clear instructions as to how to take the medication and that they should have access to a pharmacist or other medical professional to ask questions about the medication. It is also important to make sure that the medication is taken at the prescribed times each day.
Provide Necessary Support and Assistance
In some cases, older adults may be suffering from depression or anxiety, which can lead to medication refusal. In these cases, it is important to provide support and assistance such as counseling or therapy. It is also important to be aware of any other underlying conditions that may be causing the refusal.
Sometimes residents may begin refusing medication because of financial reasons. In this case, it is important to provide assistance and support, such as helping to find a way to afford the medication or providing assistance with insurance.
Create Proper Awareness
It is important to ensure that the older adult is aware of any potential risks associated with refusing medication. For example, if the medication is not taken as directed, there may be serious health consequences. It is also important to make sure that the residents understand any potential side effects of the medication and that they are comfortable with the risks associated with taking it.
Senior Living at Morada Waxahachie
It is important to provide support and assistance to older adults who refuse medication. At Morada Waxahachie, our personalized programs and a team of wellness specialists are on hand to assure residents’ continuous safety and growth, and to make healthy living a part of everyday life. If the senior is depressed or anxious, we provide aid and support such as counseling or therapy. We make sure to listen to their concerns and provide them with easy-to-understand information. In doing so, we make sure that the medication is prescribed correctly and taken as directed.
