Taking medication as prescribed by a healthcare provider is an important part of managing chronic conditions or illnesses as well as keeping you stay healthy. However, it can be challenging for some individuals to stick to their medication regimen. In fact, WHO estimates 50% of people with prescription medications do not take their medication as prescribed. There are many reasons for this but the most common reason is simply forgetting.
In this post, we'll explore common reasons why people forget to take their medications and strategies for overcoming these challenges.
Forgetting
One common reason why people forget to take their medications is a busy or hectic schedule. With so many demands on our time and attention, it can be easy to forget to take a medication, especially if it's not part of a daily routine. Additionally, some individuals may have difficulty remembering when to take their medications, especially if they are taking multiple medications at different times.
Cognitive decline
Another potential reason for missed doses is cognitive decline, such as memory loss. As we age, our cognitive abilities can decline, which can make it more difficult to remember to take medications. This can be especially challenging for individuals with conditions that affect cognitive function, such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Medication Packaging and labelling
Additionally, the packaging and labeling of medications can also contribute to missed doses. Some individuals may have difficulty reading small print or understanding instructions on medication packaging. This can lead to confusion or uncertainty about when or how to take medications, leading to missed doses.
So, what can be done to overcome these common reasons for forgetting to take medications?
5 tips to help you remember your medication
Here are several strategies you can try to remember to take your medication as prescribed.
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Set a reminder: Use an alarm on your phone, a reminder on your computer, or a physical reminder such as a sticky note to remind you to take your medication at the same time each day.
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Use a pill organizer: These are small containers with individual compartments which allows you to sort your medications by the day and time they need to be taken. This can be especially helpful if you take multiple medications at different times.
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Make it a part of your routine: Try to incorporate taking your medication into a daily routine, such as taking it after you brush your teeth or with a meal.
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Use a medication tracking app: There are many apps available that allow you to set reminders for taking your medications and track your progress. Popit app, combined with Popit Sense Smart Pill Tracker, makes it even more seamless to remember and record your doses. You can download the app on Apple App Store or Google Play. Popit Sense Smart Pill Tracker is easy to use, small and discreet design and it passively tracks your medication taking based on the movement, touch and sound involved in pill extraction.
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Ask for help: If you are having trouble remembering to take your medications, consider asking a family member or friend to help you keep track. You can also talk to your healthcare provider about other strategies that may be helpful for you.
Overall, there are many common reasons why people forget to take their medications. By understanding these challenges and utilizing strategies such as setting reminders and using a pill organizer, you can improve their medication adherence and maintain your health.
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