In light of Senior Pharmacist Care Week and American Pharmacist Month, I thought it would be a good time to talk about the important role pharmacists play in healthcare and health education. As always, this is not medical advice—we are not physicians. These are practical, educational tips meant to help families feel more informed and confident.
Ask About All Your Medications
Pharmacists are uniquely trained to understand how medications interact with one another. Whenever a new prescription is added, ask your pharmacist how it may interact with your current medications, supplements, or over-the-counter products. Be sure to ask about common side effects and what to watch for—writing these down can be especially helpful.
Make Note of Side Effects
Once you know what potential side effects to look for, consider keeping a small notebook near your medication organizer. Record symptoms along with the date and time they occur. This creates a clear record you can share with your physician or pharmacist. If you experience severe or sudden side effects, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Be Cautious With Online Medication Information
It’s common to search online for information about prescriptions, but not all sources are reliable. As we’ve shared before, health misinformation spreads easily. For accurate, up-to-date medication information, stick with trusted sources like MedlinePlus, which is maintained by the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Pharmacists are a vital part of the healthcare team—especially for older adults managing multiple medications. Thank you to all pharmacists for the care, education, and reassurance you provide every day.
Written by Brigid Coffey
