Recognizing the Signs of Medication Misuse in Seniors

Are you worried that a senior in your life may not be using their medication properly? Is it possible that changes in mood could be because of a misuse of medication? Not sure how to spot or talk about best use of medications with a loved one?

Misuse of medications is something that can happen at any age. But the senior population might be at greater risk if they have difficulty remembering proper use of their medication or have trouble reading the instructions on their prescriptions. Misuse of medication, especially pain killers, can lead to serious issues, so it’s important to be aware of the signs of misuse to help spot a problem and act fast! 

 

Signs of medication misuse.

·      Behavior: clear changes in behavior like mood swings and excessive or unusual angry outbursts. 

·      Fatigue: a sudden increase in daytime fatigue or drowsiness is another red flag. Taking the correct dosage of medication shouldn’t leave a person noticeably loopy in the middle day. 

·      Falls: a series of falls or trouble with balance can be a sign of misuse. While falls are more likely to occur in the older population, if you notice a sudden change in coordination or several minor falls in recent weeks, medication could be the culprit. 

·      Withdrawal: depression or withdrawal from social activities or family may suggest a misuse of medication. Chronic pain could also be to blame for this kind of behavior. Either way, it’s something to address. 

·      Refills: if you’re worried about possible misuse of medication, one way to check is by comparing the refill date on the medication and how many doses are left. If the meds are nearly gone and there are still a few weeks before the refill date, something’s not matching up!

 

 

Now that you know the signs of medication misuse, you can feel more confident about checking on your loved one and allowing them assisted living in Plymouth. But remember that many seniors may begin to misuse their medication unintentionally! That means that confronting the problem should be done gently. 

 

If you have more questions about medication misuse or managing medications, give the experts at Plymouth Terrace Senior Living a call today. (734)  451-0700

4 Easy Ways to Help a Senior Manage Medication

Is managing your medication becoming more important for assisted living in Plymouth? Are you finding your growing list of medications harder to keep track of? Need a simple solution to help a loved one manage medications in their senior years?  

As we age, many of us find that managing medications is an essential part of our daily routine. Often if a senior person is not able to manage their medications, it could put their life at risk and limit their ability to live independently. Luckily the experts at Plymouth Terrace have 4 easy ways to help seniors manage medications. 

 

1.     Organizers: pill organizers are an essential tool for anyone managing multiple medications. You can find an organizer that works with your schedule, or use several simple organizers if medications need to be taken at different times throughout the day. 

 

2.     Everything in its place: over time, supplements and medications may have taken up residence in different places throughout a home. Get everything into one convenient place so refilling organizers is fast and easy. 

 

3.     Use the phone: if the senior has and uses a smartphone, you can easily set up an app to help them remember to take their meds. For someone who is less technically inclined, you can help manage meds by making a phone call or two throughout the day. 

 

4.     Make a list: write out simple instructions in large print to put up in the same place where medications are stored. Make the list more usable by using a color-coding system with colored dots on the meds and the list! Keep extra copies of the list for family and doctor visits. 

 

You or your loved one don’t have to feel overwhelmed by an expanding list of medications anymore! Simply by practicing one or two of these items, you’ll find managing medications is much easier and assisted living in Plymouth is achievable! If you still have questions about managing your medications, give the experts at Plymouth Terrace Senior Living a call today. (734)  451-0700

How Plymouth Terrace Fosters a Safe and Inclusive Community

Do you have concerns about finding a senior living community with the right environment for your loved one?

At our senior living home, we cherish and celebrate the diversity of our residents, fostering a safe and inclusive community where LGBTQ elders can thrive with pride and dignity. 

Aging is a natural and beautiful part of life, a journey marked by wisdom, experiences, and resilience. For LGBTQ elders, this journey can come with unique challenges stemming from a lifetime of navigating social stigmas, discrimination, and invisibility. According to studies, LGBTQ older adults are more likely to live alone, face financial insecurities, and lack family support. 

With all these challenges in mind, we’re committed to creating an environment where every resident feels values, respected, and embraced for who they are. 

How Plymouth Terrace Fosters a Safe and Inclusive Community 

Cultivating Respect and Acceptance: We believe that creating a culture of respect begins with education and training for our staff. We train our staff to care for everyone who lives at our retirement community. It’s important to understand how LGBTQ elders feel the way they feel and how we can make sure they’re comfortable. 

Supportive Services: LQBTQ elders may have specific needs related to healthcare, mental health, or social support. We offer access to a team of professionals to help our residents find comfort and help with personalized care and treatment. 

Safe Spaces: Our residents have access to hobbies and activities to help combat feelings of loneliness and boredom. These safe spaces encourage supportive relationships where they can gather, socialize, and express themselves without fear of judgement or discrimination. 

Find LGBTQ Friendly Senior Living at Plymouth Terrace 

As we celebrate pride in aging, we reaffirm our commitment to creating warm, welcoming, and LGBTQ friendly senior living in Plymouth where all our residents have the opportunity to age with dignity, pride, and joy. 

Every resident’s story is cherished, every identity honored, and every journey celebrated in our vibrant community of love and acceptance. 

If you are interested in scheduling a tour, contact us today to learn more! 

The Importance of Pride in Aging

Are you anxious about finding a senior living center that’s LGBTQ friendly?

In your golden years, you deserve to bask in the warmth of acceptance, support, and pride in who you are. Yet, for LGBTQ elders, navigating aging can come with unique challenges, from a lifetime of societal stigma to concerns about finding safe and affirming communities. 

Senior living homes play a crucial role in fostering such environments, ensuring that all residents feel valued, supported, and celebrated for who they are. 

The Importance of Pride in Aging

Pride in aging is about embracing one’s identity, experiences, and wisdom gained over a lifetime. For LGBTQ elders, this pride can be overshadowed by a history of discrimination, stigma, and invisibility. 

Many seniors grew up during a time when being open about their identity could result in social rejection, legal repercussions, or even violence. As a result, they may carry deep-seated fears of discrimination or prejudice, even in settings designated for older adults. Creating a culture of pride in aging means recognizing and addressing historical injustices and celebrating the resilience and strength of LGBTQ elders. 

We Take Pride in Offering LGBTQ Friendly Living in Plymouth 

As we look into the future, our commitment to LGBTQ inclusivity remains unwavering. We stand as a beacon of hope and acceptance in offering LGBTQ friendly senior living in Plymouth so our local elders can find solace, companionship, and the freedom to be their authentic selves. 

We believe that aging isn’t just about growing older – it’s about growing bolder, brighter, and prouder with each passing day. 

If you are interested in scheduling a tour, contact us today to learn more! 

How does Plymouth Terrace Empower Resident Autonomy?

 1. Tailored care: No one-size fits all here! We get to know you and your needs and create a plan that provides the right amount of help.

2. Choice is king (or queen): Want to pick out your activities? Done. Want a salad for dinner? Got it! Empowerment is the name of the game.

3. Tech to the rescue: Gadgets like voice assistants and other smart phone features lend a hand with everyday tasks, keeping you independent as long as possible.

4. Designed for you: Imagine wider hallways, grab bars in the bathroom, and lighting you can adjust. These smart design features make it easier to get around safely and do things on your own.

5. Talk it out: Open communication is key. Caregivers who listen and treat you with respect make all the difference. It's a team effort, after all!

 

Assisted living can be a fantastic way to keep your independence and enjoy a vibrant life. Look for a place that puts residents first and you might surprise yourself with how much you thrive! 

 

Learn how we empower resident autonomy here.

 

Schedule Your Tour Today! 

We provide an “aging by choice” philosophy. We work with your family to create the best possible living situation for your senior relative. Our housing, dining, and care services will make your loved one feel at home! 

If you’re interested in learning more about assisted living in Plymouth  or scheduling a tour, contact us today! 734-451-0700.

Why is independence a big deal?

Staying in control feels good! It keeps your mind sharp and your spirits high. Assisted living communities that understand this create a more positive experience for their residents.

Learn how we empower resident autonomy here.

 

Schedule Your Tour Today! 

We provide an “aging by choice” philosophy. We work with your family to create the best possible living situation for your senior relative. Our housing, dining, and care services will make your loved one feel at home! 

If you’re interested in learning more about assisted living in Plymouth or scheduling a tour, contact us today! 734-451-0700.

Consequences of Not Getting a Good Night’s Rest

Getting a good night’s sleep is harder as we age and can lead to serious health issues, including: 

·       Weakened immunity

·       Higher frequency of falls

·       Unintentional weight gain or loss

·       Higher rates of diabetes

·       Greater risk for cardiac disease

·       Change in temperament

 

Learn more about why getting a good night’s sleep is so important here.

Ensure peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones with assisted living in Plymouth!

When your aging parents move into an assisted living community, you won’t have to worry if someone is there to help get them back on their feet. Call us today at (734) 451-0700 or visit our website to learn more about options for assisted living in Plymouth.