July 02, 2008

Health Tip: Giving Medications to People With Alzheimer's

(HealthDay News) -- As a caregiver of someone with Alzheimer's, administering their medication -- and preventing missed pills or the wrong dosages -- can be a daunting responsibility.

The Alzheimer's Association offers these suggestions:

• Learn about each medication before you administer it. Make sure you know exactly what each pill is for, and its possible side effects.
• In clear language, explain exactly what each pill is for, and why and how the person needs to take it.
• Keep good records of each medication taken, the dose, and when taken.
• Keep medications well-organized, and safely stored out of reach in a locked cabinet or drawer.
• Don't let taking medicine turn into a struggle. If the person doesn't want to take it at a particular moment, try again a bit later.
• Make the task as easy as possible. Ask your pharmacist for liquid, which may be easier to administer than a pill. Or ask the pharmacist if you can crush the pill and put it in food.

-- Diana Kohnle

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