Low Health Literacy Rate in Seniors

Health literacy refers to a patient’s ability to understand the usage, information, and instructions they are to follow about their health and medications. Recent studies show that seniors are not taking prescription medications properly because of the present low health literacy rate. The low health literacy rate has led to a poor health status and a high risk of death. Studies show that patients have been taking medications up to 14 times a day because they did not want to combine their dosages although medications were prescribed in the same manner (i.e. one pill every 12 hours).

Doctors usually prescribe medications that can be taken together and are safe for the patient. However, one third of senior patients were found to be taking their meds at different times. Drugs are typically prescribed alike so they can be taken together. It is difficult for a patient to take prescriptions when they do not have enough information. Doctors should be up to date about what a patient is taking, such as herbal supplements and vitamins, and administrate clear instructions about taking drugs.

If you are unclear about instructions on taking medications then consult your doctor or a pharmacy right away. QualityPrescriptionDrugs is an online pharmacy where patients can ask any questions or address concerns with knowledgeable staff or directly to a qualified doctor. Additionally, QualityPrescriptionDrugs offers high quality medications such as Lipitor and Aciphex, and allows patients to talk to a pharmacist about instructions regarding intake of these prescription medications. A fear of accidental overdose and negative effects of medications prevent patients from taking medications, which can worsen the health problem. So when you’re in doubt, do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist or doctor any questions.