Taken properly, medications help people maintain good health. But when medicine is not taken as prescribed, the results can be harmful. A new program coordinated by three Bergen County agencies provides a free personalized service to help older residents benefit from what the doctor orders.
The Department of Health Services, the Division of Senior Services, and the Division of Community Development now offer the Medication Management Program to county residents 60 and older.
The program helps older residents make sure they are taking medications properly. Sometimes medicines don’t work as well as expected or produce unpleasant side effects. Mixing prescription drugs with certain foods, alcohol and other drugs can be dangerous. Medications also need to be stored properly and timed according to instructions.
The Medication Management Program includes a public health nurse review of individual health history. Height, weight and blood pressure measurements are taken. Individualized counseling and education, as well as referral and follow-up, are provided. The evaluations are conducted at established sites throughout Bergen County.
Use medications wisely! To schedule an appointment for the Medication Management Program, call (201) 336-7427.
