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Kevin Knaup
Kevin Knaup received his Kansas Adult Care Home Administrator's license in 1983 and is the Administrator and part owner of Sunset Manor, Inc. in Frontenac, KS. He has been employed at Sunset Manor for 31 years. He is a member of Kansas Health Care Association and Kansas Adult Care Executives. He has served on various local and state committees for education and training in the Adult Care home field.
Senior Living
2012-08-02 08:20:00
How can I safeuard my father against getting to many prescriptions?
Q- Recently, I made trip back home to visit my father who is on the cusp of needing assistance. While I was there, I was astonished to see that he had a huge basketful of medications by his bedside. I counted over 40 bottles of medications, some for the same prescription, others having been filled in both the generic and brand name forms, others, expired- and from several pharmacies. He claimed that they were all necessary. I am shocked that this could even happen, and do not understand how it could. I am ashamed I did not know. What can I do to prevent getting too many prescriptions?
A- First, please do not be hard on yourself. Aging is process that we learn in midst, and it is difficult to know all of the possible issues before you need to deal with them. The most important thing is to do what you are doing now, reach out and gain information and support. What you described is actually a very common problem today among older adults on the cusp of needing more assistance with daily living. In fact, it could be a sign of other problems such as memory loss. It is most likely a problem of polypharmacy, or having prescriptions filled at more than one pharmacy. In most cases, older adults live on a fixed income and find it necessary to "shop around" for the best deal on their medications at various pharmacies. This can lead to getting doubles of the same prescription. The problem is exacerbated when they get the generic and brand name forms of the same thing but with different names and think they are getting two different medications. Overdose becomes the very real danger. First, go with him to his physician and have them review his list of medications. There may be some that he no longer needs. You can also talk to the pharmacist about drug interactions. This is important as your dad likely has more than one doctor, each prescribing medications. I realize your father lives out of area, but you could bring the list of medications and I am sure that any of the physicians or pharmacists in the Pittsburg area would be happy to help answer questions. Next, honestly evaluate whether or not your dad needs more care. It is sometimes hard to know when the time is right for that, but begin the conversation now and get him used to the idea. It may be just moving him closer, getting an in-home aid to come a few times a week, or it could be a move to an assisted living facility. These are all hard changes, and just as hard for the caregiver. If you have questions about the process or available services for senior adults, or just need a listening ear, we welcome your company.
 
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