Explore practical strategies to improve medication adherence in senior populations and reduce the risk of complications.

Medication adherence is a constant challenge in long-term care. When residents miss doses or take medications incorrectly, it increases the risk of hospitalizations, complications, and even mortality. As a pharmacy partner to long-term care facilities, Skilled Care Pharmacy offers support to help ensure medications are taken safely and consistently.

Here are four strategies your team can implement to improve adherence:

1. Simplify the Medication Regimen
The fewer the medications, the easier it is for residents and staff to manage them. Work with pharmacists to reduce complexity through combination drugs, extended-release options, or scheduled simplifications.

2. Use Customized Packaging and Clear Instructions
Blister packs and color-coded labeling can greatly reduce confusion. Clear written instructions, tailored to the resident’s cognitive ability, can improve daily compliance.

3. Offer Consistent Education to Staff
Routine staff training ensures your team knows the purpose, dosage, and timing of every medication. When caregivers understand the “why,” they can better encourage residents to stick to their regimens.

4. Leverage Technology for Monitoring
Using pharmacy systems that update daily ensures all information is current. Skilled Care’s system allows facilities to track each dose administered, helping staff intervene quickly when something is missed.

In Summary
Improving medication adherence does not have to be complicated. With the right pharmacy partner, streamlined systems, and an educated staff, your facility can reduce risks and improve resident outcomes.