1 in 3 over 50s 'on more than one medication'
Published on 27 May 2011 10:30 AM
1 in 3 over 50s in Wales is regularly taking more than one type of medication, according to research by Age Cymru.
We've produced a new booklet called 'You and your medication' for older people about taking their medication safely.
Rhian Pearce, our Health Initiatives Officer explains:
"The more medications we take, the more potential side-effects - such as drowsiness or stomach upsets, we may have to deal with.
"There is also a greater risk that different types of medication may interact with each other and impair the effectiveness of one or more treatments.
"It is also important to know how to take all medications properly to ensure that they are working effectively to manage the conditions for which they are prescribed or purchased."
Age Cymru has produced ‘You and your medication' - a handy, full-colour, bilingual guide about managing your medication."
It contains a ten point guide to taking your medicines safely, as well as advice about hospital and GP appointments and information about alcohol and medication.
The booklet also has a list of useful contacts and a form you can use to keep a handy record of the medications you are taking.
You can get a copy of this leaflet by contacting Age UK Advice - our free advice line, on freephone 0800 169 65 65.