Create a Routine
Get into the habit of taking medications at the same time every day. Ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist whether you should take them before eating, after eating, or with food. Then decide on a routine that will help you remember to do so.
Perhaps you’ll take the medication when you wake up, go to bed, or during the day with an enjoyable snack. That can help you remember to take the pill.
You can also try a practice called habit stacking, which is when you add on a new habit to something that you already do at the same time each day, such as brushing your teeth or brewing your coffee.
Keep a Medication Diary
Use a dedicated notebook or calendar to keep track of your medications daily. Check them off when you’ve taken them for the day. You can even write down the time you took the pill, in case you need to refer back to it.
Consider a Pill Organizer
These are boxes with separate compartments that can be labeled with the days of the week and specific times. At the start of the week, put your pills in the box according to when you need to take them. You can also ask a family member or friend to help you do that if your sight or dexterity is impaired.
Involve Family or Friends
Beyond helping with your pill organizer, loved ones are often happy to assist you with maintaining or improving your health. They can:
- Accompany You to Medical Visits They may remember what the doctor said, even if you forget, especially if you feel anxious or stressed.
- Learn About Your Medications Two heads can be better than one in terms of understanding how drugs work and what risks you should look out for.
- Provide Reminders Ask a loved one to call you or send a text at the times when you should take your pills.
- Support Your Treatment Journey Tackling health issues through teamwork is easier than going it alone. If they also have a treatment to follow, you can support them in return.
Communicate With Your Doctor and Pharmacist
Speak with your doctor if any of these circumstances affect your ability to take your medication:
- You’re concerned about or are experiencing side effects.
- You don’t understand the drug or are getting confused about which drugs are which.
- You don’t think the medication is helping.
- You’ve heard negative reports in the news or from friends about your medication.
- You can’t afford to pay for the treatment.
- You have another health condition that could affect regular use, such as depression or memory loss.
Your doctor may be able to simplify your drug regimen, prescribe a more affordable drug, or address other concerns.
