Elderly medication management support
Support with medication management in the comfort of home, from trusted and trained Care Professionals who can help with a bespoke combination of care needs.
What is medication management?
Medication management is the safe and timely administration of necessary prescription medications. Whether you need ongoing specialist care such as for dementia, cancer or Parkinson’s, or short-term care for an illness or curable condition, medication may be required to treat this, manage pain and other symptoms, and improve quality of life. Medication management from a caregiver might mean:
- Working alongside your GP or other healthcare professionals to understand what medications are needed and how to take them
- Attending regular GP appointments with you to keep track of any changes
- Monitoring your health and medication side effects
Keeping an up-to-date MAR Chart (a system for tracking medications)
Why is medication management helpful for older adults?
Medication management helps older adults who wish to remain living at home, but lack the mobility or cognitive ability to keep track of their own medications, for example if they live with a condition such as dementia.Our trained Care Professionals take time to learn about each medication, what it does, and the potential side effects. They can help with tasks like making food to take with certain medications if required, and can make medical professionals aware of any reactions or side effects that arise.If you or a loved one needs help to stay organised and take medications, then medication management from a home carer could take the stress out of this experience, avoid missed or incorrect doses, and put your mind at ease.
Do I need medication management?
There can be a lot to think about when it comes to medication management, including timings, blister packs, correct storage and expiration dates, among other things. If you worry about your ability to manage this correctly, it may be best to err on the side of caution by bringing in home care to help with medication management.In the UK, a 2025 study found that over 48% of medication errors happened due to incorrect administration. A mistake with medication can be dangerous, so this is important if you think you are unable to manage this effectively on your own, particularly if you rely on certain medications to manage a serious health condition.
Home Instead have an experienced caring team that far exceeds in quality anything we experienced from other agencies at this point of service.Steve, Client
Knowing that mum has caring and genuine people to help take care of her gives me peace of mind and mum looks forward to seeing the Care Professionals. Thank you for making such a big difference to both of our lives.Rebecca, Client's Family
Home Instead have been looking after my father for a few years now, without them we would not be able to manage having him living in his own home. They are always bright and cheerful and Dad enjoys seeing them.Bridget, Clients Family
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How to get started arranging medication management
Medication management can be easily shaped around your medication needs, and this will depend on the type of health condition(s) you are living with. For example, visiting care could come to your home once a day for 30 minutes to administer your morning medications. Or, if you suffer from several conditions and require multiple medications administered in various ways (such as orally, topically or intravenously) you may benefit from live-in care so you always have someone around to help stick to the schedule.Our helpful office staff can discuss your health needs, or the needs of your loved one, and pair you with a trained, experienced Care Professional who can learn exactly what you require, and keep on top of your medication schedule.
Why Home Instead?
Our skilled and friendly Care Professionals can support your medication management so you always have someone around to answer questions, administer medications (when trained to do so) and who can step in in case of any emergencies or urgent needs. We are proud to be rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Alongside medication management, our Care Professionals can provide a combination of services to suit your needs, such as personal care, home help and housekeeping, postoperative care, companionship, and more.
FAQs
How can a home care service help with elderly medication management?
A home care service provides professional assistance to ensure medication is taken correctly and on time. Our Care Professionals can organise pill boxes, provide reminders, and monitor for side effects or changes in health. They also work closely with family members and healthcare providers to create a tailored approach to medication management.
Can carers assist with complex medication routines?
Yes. Our trained Care Professionals can manage complex medication schedules, including multiple prescriptions. They ensure each medication is taken as prescribed, avoiding missed doses or errors. For individuals requiring more advanced support, Care Professionals might assist with liquid medications, patches, or other specialised treatments as advised by a medical professional.
How do carers ensure safety with medication management?
All our Care Professionals are vigilant about medication safety. They store medicines securely, check expiry dates, and ensure they are administered at the correct times and dosages. They also monitor for potential side effects or adverse reactions, reporting any concerns to doctors or family members promptly.
What happens if an elderly individual has difficulty remembering to take their medication?
Home care services include medication reminders to help elderly individuals stay on track. Care Professionals can set up daily routines, use reminders like alarms or apps, and provide direct support during visits to ensure nothing is forgotten, giving families peace of mind.
How is a personalised medication management plan created?
A personalised plan is developed through close collaboration with the individual, their family, and healthcare providers. Care Professionals assess medication needs, preferences, and any challenges such as mobility or cognitive issues. This ensures that every aspect of medication management aligns with the individual’s unique needs.
Diane WIlliams , Head of Quality & Standards
Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.
Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.
In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.