1. Try Liquid Medications

Some of your loved one’s pills could be too large and difficult to swallow. Whether aging adults have dementia or another health condition, swallowing pills can often be challenging for them. If your loved one refuses to take medication because he or she is uncomfortable with swallowing pills, ask your loved one’s physician if there are liquid alternatives available. 

Professional caregivers with training and expertise in dementia care can often identify the reasons for seniors’ reluctance to take medication. Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. We are a leading provider of dementia care. San Diego families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care.

2. Distract Your Loved One

For seniors with dementia who experience paranoia and delusions, offering them medications can lead to discomfort and extreme suspicion. However, presenting the medication without ceremony can sometimes prevent this type of reaction. Start a conversation about something pleasant, such as a favorite family memory, then casually hand your loved one the medication as he or she is speaking. This way, your loved one may unthinkingly take the medication without becoming suspicious. 

You might also consider offering your loved one a treat as a reward for taking the medication. For instance, you could place a piece of chocolate in front of your loved one and say it will be a treat after taking the medication. Such treats can also serve to take away any bitter taste medications may leave behind, and your loved one may begin to associate taking medicine with a positive experience. 

3. Hide Medication in Food or Drink

If you’re unable to distract your loved one so he or she takes medications without noticing, putting them into foods or drinks can hide the bad taste as well as prevent feelings of suspicion. For liquid medication, prepare a tea or other food item you can mix the medication into. For pills, crush them and add to drinks or soft foods such as applesauce. However, never crush up a pill without asking your loved one’s physician or pharmacist, as some pills contain special coatings or are meant to be time-released and shouldn’t be broken down. 

A trained caregiver with experience in caring for seniors with dementia can be a fantastic resource for family members. Families looking for top-rated at-home care providers can reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.

4. Ask about Sprays

For medications that aren’t available in liquid form and can’t be crushed up, there’s another alternative. Certain pills can be sprayed with a liquid that makes them slippery and easier to swallow, so consider asking your loved one’s doctor if he or she can recommend or prescribe a good pill spray for this purpose. 

If your loved one with dementia is avoiding taking medications, these suggestions can help you handle his or her care more effectively. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, medication reminders, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care San Diego families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today to schedule a free in-home consultation.