Medicine Cabinet Makeover

There is no better time to clean house than in the Spring and no better place to start than the medicine cabinet. Over time, we can accumulate a shocking number of medicines for coughs, colds and allergies as well as vitamins and other supplements. Seniors can be especially hard-pressed to throw anything away, including old medications, “just in case” someone might need 10-year-old Vitamin C tablets.

Start by checking expiry dates and out-of-date prescriptions; take anything that is old or not used to the pharmacy to be disposed of properly. Don’t flush pills down the toilet, they can end up in the waterways and adversely effect fish and other aquatic animals. Small amounts of medicine has also been found in human drinking water.

If the you must throw out medication, remove it from it’s original container and mix the medication with an unappealing substance such as coffee grounds and cayenne pepper or kitty litter. This makes it less attractive to pets and children. Remove all identifying labels to protect your personal health information. Seal the container to prevent leaking before disposing of any medication.

Toss anything that is expired or no longer current and keep prescription bottles organized and clearly labeled in case of an emergency. This is a great time to make a list of all the medications a senior takes and have it posted in a visible location such as the fridge.

The Well Stocked Medicine Cabinet

• Thermometer – a current electronic one is easier to read
• Baby aspirin – in case of heart attack
• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain, headaches and fever.
• Decongestant and cough medicine for colds
• Antihistamines for allergies
• Eye drops – for itchy, irritated eyes.
• First aid supplies – including bandages and gauze as well as medical tape, antibiotic ointment and hydrogen peroxide
• Calamine lotion for rashes or antihistamine cream for itching
• Calcium carbonate tablets for heartburn

These are all meant to treat only minor injury. For any severe or long-lasting symptoms, visit your doctor. Be sure to check all medications for possible drug interactions.