COVID-19 has caused Canadians to become more aware of the vulnerable people in our community, including older people. This has lead many of us to lend a helping hand to friends and loved ones. Since the pandemic began, I’ve seen many Moose Jaw residents step up to support older people in our community, which has been truly inspiring.
This month we observed International Day of Older Persons, which is meant to raise awareness of the issues and challenges of aging in today's world. This past year, we have been reminded of the importance of taking care of the people around us – particularly our seniors. I hope this continues to remain a priority.
There are a few things you should know before you come in if you’re visiting the pharmacy on behalf of a neighbour or loved one. As a frontline health care worker, I am here to support you and your loved ones during the pandemic and beyond. I’ve compiled a handy list of things to keep in mind if you’re planning to visit a pharmacy on behalf of someone else, old or young.
• Plan ahead – If you’re picking up a prescription for someone else, ask the prescription holder to call the pharmacy before you arrive to alert us that someone else will be picking up the prescription. This way, there will be no surprises when you come in.
• Come prepared – Whether a new medication or a refill, we’ll walk you through how to properly take a medication. It is important to take detailed notes and ask any questions so you can accurately share this crucial information with the prescription holder as well as any prescription information sheets we provide. Should you have any questions after you’ve left, please give us a call and we are happy to answer them.
• Medication reviews – If your neighbour or loved one is taking multiple medications, consider bringing them into the pharmacy for a medication review with their local pharmacist. A medication review can help them understand how to best take prescriptions, what each one is for, common side effects and how to manage them. Non-prescription products and the foods we eat can affect how prescriptions work and how well they address the ailment they were prescribed to treat. Appointments typically last 20 to 30 minutes and are covered by most provincial health programs. Medication reviews are funded by their respective provincial governments for those who are eligible.
• Ask about medication reminder devices – Keeping track of medications can be difficult. Missing a dose of daily medication, or taking a double dose, can be a serious health risk. If your neighbour or loved one needs support with remembering to take medication, ask your local pharmacist about getting medication provided in a blister pack, dosette, or other compliance aide.
Your local pharmacist is here to make your in-pharmacy experience, whether for yourself or someone else, as easy as possible. If you have any questions, give us a call, we’re here to help!
Tim Blunt is the Pharmacist and Owner at the local Shoppers Drug Mart in Moose Jaw. Visit ShoppersDrugMart.ca to find your nearest store.
