Thanksgiving is a time for heartwarming traditions, shared meals, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. But for caregivers in long-term care facilities and family members caring for seniors at home, the holiday season can also bring a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to medication management.

Picture this: amidst the excitement of Thanksgiving preparations, a resident's medication schedule gets disrupted, leading to missed doses, potential health complications, and a dash of holiday stress. It's a scenario no caregiver wants to face.



But fear not! With a sprinkle of planning, a dash of communication, and a generous helping of support from Skilled Care Pharmacy, you can ensure a smooth and joyful Thanksgiving for everyone involved.

Here's your recipe for stress-free medication management this Thanksgiving:

1. Pre-Holiday Prep: The Secret Ingredient to Success

• Medication Inventory: Before the turkey hits the oven, take a moment to review each resident's medication supply. Ensure you have enough to last through the holiday weekend, accounting for any potential delays in refills due to pharmacy closures or altered delivery schedules.
• Communication is Key: Reach out to your pharmacy well in advance to discuss any changes in delivery needs or special requests. Inform them of any planned outings or events that might affect medication administration times.
• Family Collaboration: If family members are involved in caregiving, gather them around the table (figuratively, of course!) to discuss medication schedules and any potential challenges. Ensure everyone understands the importance of adhering to medication routines, even amidst the festivities.

2. Traveling for Turkey? Pack the Pills with Care

• Portable Pill Organizers: If residents are venturing out for Thanksgiving gatherings, equip them with clearly labeled pill organizers to keep their medications organized and accessible.
• Medication Reminders: Set reminders on phones or other devices to ensure medications are taken on time, even with altered schedules and exciting distractions.
• Travel-Friendly Packaging: Consider requesting travel-friendly packaging from your pharmacy, such as blister packs or pre-filled syringes, to simplify medication administration on the go.

3. Maintaining Routine Amidst the Feast

• Designated Medication Times: As much as possible, stick to regular medication administration times, even with holiday activities. This helps maintain consistency and reduces the risk of missed doses.
• Quiet Medication Zone: Create a peaceful oasis amidst the holiday bustle by designating a quiet area for medication administration, away from the excitement and distractions. This allows for focused attention and minimizes errors.
• Dietary Considerations: Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or interactions between medications and holiday foods. Communicate these considerations to family members and staff to ensure resident safety. After all, no one wants a side of medication complications with their pumpkin pie!

4. Skilled Care Pharmacy: Your Trusted Holiday Helper

At Skilled Care Pharmacy, we understand the unique challenges of medication management during the holidays. We're here to support you and your residents with:

• Extended Hours and Delivery Options: We offer flexible delivery options and extended hours to accommodate your needs during the holiday season, ensuring you have the medications you need, when you need them.
• 24/7 Pharmacist Support: Our pharmacists are available around the clock to answer questions, address concerns, and provide guidance on medication management, even on holidays. We're just a phone call away!
• Personalized Medication Reviews: We conduct comprehensive medication reviews to ensure that each resident's medication regimen is optimized and safe, especially during times of potential disruption.

5. Enjoy the Holiday Spirit with Peace of Mind

With a dash of planning, a sprinkle of communication, and a generous helping of support from Skilled Care Pharmacy, you can ensure that medication management doesn't dampen the Thanksgiving spirit. By taking proactive steps and collaborating with your pharmacy partner, you can create a safe and enjoyable holiday experience for your residents and their families.

Ready to savor a stress-free Thanksgiving?

Contact Skilled Care Pharmacy today to learn more about our services and how we can support your medication management needs during the holiday season. https://www.skilledcare.com/

Remember: A little planning goes a long way in ensuring that your residents receive the care they need, even during the most festive times of the year.