CONTENTS

Table of Contents
Introduction

1. Overview
2. Alcohol
3. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications
4. Barriers to Recognizing Problems
5. Signs and Symptoms of Misuse
6. Talking About Sensitive Issues
7. Assessing a Problem
8. Preventing Misuse
9. Intervention and Treatment

Supplements
Resources

Alcohol, Medication and Older Adults
For Those Who Care About or Care for an Older Adult

Medication Management Tools

Medication Do's and Don'ts

Here are some guidelines that can help the older adult understand and properly use medications. It is not practical or necessary to do everything recommended. Select from the suggestions those ideas that can be useful in your own situation.

DO

Understand all instructions before taking a medication.

Follow instructions exactly.

Keep all medications in one place.

Keep medications for external and internal use separated.

Check the expiration dates on all prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Organize a system for taking medications, such as using a chart or plastic pill containers.

DON'T

DON'T drink alcohol in combination with other drugs without first asking a doctor or pharmacist.

DON'T give, take, or trade medications with another person.

DON'T transfer a drug from its original container to another.

DON'T save medications for future use.

DON'T take medications in the dark.

DON'T stop taking medications without first checking with a doctor.