Although aches and pains are a natural part of aging, chronic pain can lower one’s quality of life. Today, many people rely on opioids to manage their pain. There’s a downside, however: patients can become addicted to their painkillers. The CDC reports that prescription opioids are now involved in 66.4% of drug overdose fatalities. Meanwhile, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that 115 people die daily in the United States from opioid overdoses. In this article, we’re going to focus on seniors and pain management and how a supportive Bronx network can help secure their well-being.
Working With Your Doctor For Pain Management
Seniors must have regular checkups. However, a candid conversation about prescription drug usage is equally important. Below, we list some key questions to ask a doctor or healthcare practitioner during appointments.
- What is the dosage and the duration of medication? Will it be short term or long term?
- What is the alternative if the prescribed dosage isn’t enough?
- How often can the medication be safely taken?
- Are there any side effects to watch out for?
- How will the medication interact with other substances if taken together?
- What are other options for pain relief?
Although many seniors have a firm grasp of pain management, others are not so fortunate. The latter may particularly appreciate the support of a loved one or trusted friend during doctors’ visits. In any case, every effort should be made to help seniors overcome their fears and challenges.
How A Strong Supportive Network Can Help
If you’re a loved one or friend who is helping a senior with prescription pain management, here are some additional questions to ask:
- How often can the medication be refilled?
- Are there any resources available to caregivers who are helping their loved ones with pain management?
- How can one help a loved one who is abusing prescription pain medication?
- What can one do to encourage reluctant seniors to take their medication?
- How can one help seniors prevent pain medication abuse or overdose?
It’s also important to realize that there are affordable professional resources to help caregivers.
We emphatically stress that pain should not rob anyone of comfort or stability in life. Seniors can enjoy an improved quality of life with a little teamwork and education. In short, pain management can be easily integrated into the daily routine of life.
David York Agency Can Help
For more tips about seniors and pain management in the Bronx, be sure to explore David York Agency’s blog.
For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at 718.376.7755. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best. We aim to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter, or LinkedIn.
Last, but not least, you can get more help and information by contacting us today.
