Avoid the danger of misusing pills for senior citizens

The advancement of drugs and healthcare has significantly increased life expectancy. In Myanmar, senior citizens are highly respected and considered the pride of their families. However, with age comes the necessity to take medication regularly, making it essential for seniors to use the right drugs and avoid harmful habits related to pill consumption.
Senior citizens belong to a vulnerable group when it comes to the dangers of medication. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that they are at high risk of experiencing adverse effects from drugs, especially during intensive care, emergency treatment, or surgical procedures. While medication is crucial for treating various health conditions, incorrect use or abuse of drugs can lead to severe consequences.
Certain drugs pose higher risks, especially for the elderly. For example, powerful antibiotics, medications for reducing swelling, cardiac drugs, and those for managing hypertension can be particularly dangerous if misused. Therefore, it is vital for seniors to follow the prescriptions and guidance provided by their physicians or surgeons. Self-medication, or following drug advice found on social media, can have harmful consequences.
Studies show that people often make mistakes when taking medication. These errors can include taking the wrong pills, miscalculating dosages, or failing to follow warnings about the potential side effects of drugs. Such mistakes can lead to dangerous outcomes, which is a global issue in healthcare. According to the WHO, the cost of errors related to medication, including taking the wrong pills, amounts to approximately US$42 billion annually.
A major concern is the misuse of antibiotics, which can lead to antibiotic resistance. When this happens, treating infections becomes more challenging. This issue can affect anyone, but senior citizens are particularly vulnerable. Drug resistance can have severe consequences for their health and may even be life-threatening. Medications used to treat swelling, cardiac conditions, and hypertension can cause significant harm if not taken correctly.
While medication plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of senior citizens, it must be taken with care. Senior citizens should always adhere to their doctor’s instructions, avoid self-medication, and be cautious about the information they receive from unofficial sources like social media. Proper use of medication can help senior citizens prevent dangerous situations and live healthier lives. If not, they have to take pills with the help of family members or any helpers at the set time, strictly in accord with the prescription and directives of physicians and surgeons.