Medication errors are one of the most common — and most preventable — causes of hospital admissions among older adults. Understanding how medication support works at home, and what to look out for, is one of the most important things a family can do to keep their loved one safe.
How we manage medication
At DeRivian, every client's medication support is detailed in their care plan — covering what medication they take, when, in what form, and any known interactions or side effects to monitor. Our carers are trained to administer medication safely, to record every dose, and to raise concerns with their manager or the client's GP immediately if something doesn't seem right.
We use Monitored Dosage Systems (blister packs) where appropriate, which make it easier to see at a glance whether a dose has been taken. But we always work alongside pharmacists and GPs rather than in isolation — medication management is a team effort.
What families can do
Keep an up-to-date list of all medication — including over-the-counter medicines, supplements and herbal remedies — and share it with your care provider and GP. Medication reviews should happen at least annually, or more frequently if new conditions develop or medications change. Don't be afraid to ask questions: understanding why each medication is prescribed helps everyone involved to spot potential problems early.
