Updated Guide for Seniors on Safe Medicine Use Launched by Council on Family Health

Strategic Insights -

The Council on Family Health has updated its educational guide, Medicines and You: A Guide for Older Adults, to provide seniors with essential information on safe and responsible medicine use. The revised guide, available in Spanish, will be distributed in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Administration on Aging (AoA). This updated guide will help older adults manage their medicines effectively, avoid potential problems, and reduce healthcare costs.

Key Takeaways:

  • The revised guide provides practical information on the use of prescription and nonprescription medicines, including facts about drug interactions and tips for communicating with healthcare professionals.
  • The guide features a "My Medicine Record" chart, allowing seniors to list their medicines and important health information.
  • The updated guide emphasizes the importance of knowledge and good communication between older adults and their health professionals to avoid potential problems with medicines.
  • The guide is available in English and Spanish, with the option to request a free copy online or through phone services.
  • The Council on Family Health is dedicated to educating consumers about the proper use of nonprescription and prescription medicines, dietary supplements, home safety, and personal health.

Statistics:

  • The revised guide is a 17-page educational resource for seniors.
  • The guide provides information on how to read medicine labels and package inserts, follow directions, and ask questions to healthcare professionals.
  • The guide is available in Spanish, meeting the needs of the growing Spanish-speaking population.
  • The Council on Family Health has been dedicated to consumer education since its establishment in 1966.

Sources:

  • Council on Family Health
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  • Administration on Aging (AoA)
  • The National Council on the Aging
  • American Society on Aging