Medication management is especially important for people with dementia. It’s critical that they take their medications on time and in the right dosage. If medication is not taken properly, their condition can quickly deteriorate and they may not be able to verbalize that they’re not feeling well. This can be very challenging for caregivers.

When people with dementia attend an adult day center, part of our role is to observe any changes in physical, cognitive or mental health and report it to caregivers. Over the years, there have been many examples of participants that came to the center with noticeable physical or behavioral changes, and we have informed caregivers so they could address issues quickly and avoid hospitalizations.

For example, last week one of our participants with dementia was much more lethargic and confused than usual. When our staff asked him how he was feeling, he pulled out a bag of pills and told us he wasn’t sure what he was supposed to be taking. Our staff immediately contacted his nurse and family caregiver, and they worked together to ensure he was getting the correct medicine at the right times. This week, he is feeling well and his energy level is back to normal. With the help of adult day center staff and his nurse from the VNS CHOICE Program, his caregiver is now better able to manage his medications safely.

Tip for Caregivers: Buy a pill box with days of the week and time of day. You can find them at your local drug store or surgical supply store.