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 post, we’re going to focus on seniors and pain management. A supportive network in Somerset County 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, you should make every effort 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, you can easily integrate pain management into the daily routine of life.
David York Agency Can Help Seniors in Somerset County
At David York Agency, we understand the many challenges and risks faced by the aging and elderly and are dedicated to providing care to support them through all of those ups and down. At David York Home Healthcare Agency, extraordinary service is what sets us apart from other companies in Somerset County that provide in home health care services.
DYA we could provide direction as to how to manage the total care of your senior loved one. Whatever your care needs, we are there for you, always striving to exceed your expectations. For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at (908) 373-5300. A free phone consultation can help you determine what services would meet your needs. 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.
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