Medication Management
Safe medication use prevents adverse drug events, interactions, and hospitalizations. Keep accurate records and stay informed about every medication you take.
If you are helping someone age well
Help organize a pill box, set phone reminders, and attend doctor visits with a full medication list. Watch for confusion or dizziness after new prescriptions — these can signal harmful interactions.
What is polypharmacy?
Brown-bag review checklist
Before your next appointment, gather these items and check them off:
Safety tips for older adults
One pharmacy when possible
Using one pharmacy helps catch drug interactions across prescriptions.
Read labels every time
Check the name, dose, and instructions. Ask if the pill looks different after a refill.
Never share medications
A drug that works for someone else may be dangerous for you, especially with age-related kidney or liver changes.
Dispose of expired drugs safely
Do not flush unless the label says to. Use a pharmacy take-back program or follow FDA guidance.
Watch for side effects
Dizziness, confusion, and falls can be medication side effects — not just "getting older." Report new symptoms to your doctor.
Medication list template
Fill in one row per medication. Bring this to every doctor visit.
| Medication name | Dose & how often | What it is for | Prescribing doctor | Pharmacy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
When to call your doctor or pharmacist immediately: severe dizziness, confusion, rash, swelling, trouble breathing, or a fall after starting or changing a medication.