A third of adults in Ireland take long-term medication, a figure that increases to two thirds amongst over-65s. Taking your medication regularly is important if you want to remain healthy. Sometimes, however, it can be hard to keep track of when you need to take your medication. This is where a medication dispenser may come in handy.
What is a Medication Dispenser?
Also known as pill dispensers, medication dispensers are pieces of equipment that help people to take their medication at the correct times. Some are electronic, sounding an alert at pre-arranged times and giving access to the medication. Others are simple boxes that are marked with times of day.
Most are designed to contain a week’s worth of medication. Some medication dispensers are split into days; others are further split into times. An electronic dispenser, depending on the model, will unlock itself when it is time to take your pills.
Benefits of Medication Dispensers
Research suggests that 71% of Irish adults forget to take their medication. This may be due to busy schedules or poor memory. Opting to use a medication dispenser can help you adhere to a regular routine, reducing the likelihood of missing any medication.
Easy to Use
A medication dispenser makes taking your medication easy. Rather than getting the precise dosage out of the bottles or packs every time, the correct amount of medication is measured out in advance. With an electronic dispenser, it is reasonably straightforward to set up. It also means you do not have to read your prescription every time, which can sometimes be difficult, especially when the writing is small.
Some electronic dispensers also have an alert that will remind you to refill. This can be a great help when it comes to adhering to your medication times. Furthermore, depending on the brand of dispenser you purchase, it may be able to contain up to a month’s worth of medication.
Extra Safety
Not all medication comes in glass bottles with childproof caps. Many powerful painkillers, for example, are available in cardboard boxes. Opting to use medication dispensers can help to keep your pills secure. This may be especially useful if you have pets or visiting grandkids.
There is always the risk of medication boxes being knocked over. Lost pills could turn up later, only to be accidentally eaten by a pet or young relative. Electronic dispensers, especially, usually come fitted with timed locks.
Helps Carers
If you are attended by carers, a medication dispenser can help them to support you with your medication. It may be that your carers come in when it is time to take your prescription. Having your medication pre-prepared can save time, making it easier for your carer to support you. Storing pills in a medication dispenser also helps your carer know whether you have had your pills for the day.
Pill dispensers reduce the risk of accidental overdose, as they make it clear whether the dosage for the day has been taken.
Supporting Independence
In later life many older adults want to maintain their independence. Relying on another person to sort and provide medication can leave people feeling somewhat out of control of their own lives. A pill dispenser provides the opportunity for elderly people to control their own prescriptions.
Using the pill dispenser helps you to keep track of how much medication you have and whether you have taken your pills for the day.
Extra Support from LifeConnect24
Choosing a personal alarm from LifeConnect24 can further support your independence in the home. Our lifesaving devices offer extra peace of mind, with help always available at the press of a button. It is our mission to keep elderly people safe at home.
You can find out more about our devices by looking at our guide. Further information on health and lifestyle can be found in our blog. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our helpful team on 1 800 937543.
If you have a long-term health condition you may qualify for VAT exemption.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 22nd February 2024 to reflect current information.
