For many Australians, especially older adults and individuals with chronic conditions, following a prescribed medication routine is challenging. Medication adherence — taking the right dose at the right time — directly improves treatment outcomes and reduces hospitalisations.
What is medication adherence and why does it matter?
Medication adherence refers to the extent to which a person follows their prescribed medication regimen. It includes timing, dosage, and frequency. Non-adherence increases health risks and treatment failure. According to the World Health Organization, poor adherence causes up to 50% of chronic illness treatment failures globally.
Why do people miss medications at home?
People miss medications due to several factors, such as:
| Cause | Examples |
|---|---|
| Cognitive challenges | Dementia, forgetfulness, confusion |
| Complex regimens | Multiple medications with different schedules |
| Physical limitations | Arthritis, tremors, difficulty opening bottles or swallowing pills |
| Side effects | Nausea, dizziness, fatigue |
| Low health literacy | Misunderstanding medication purposes or instructions |
| Mental health conditions | Depression, anxiety, low motivation |
What are the best ways to improve medication adherence?
There are 7 practical strategies that can increase adherence at home:
1. Create a medication schedule
To stay consistent, link medication times to daily habits, such as meals or bedtime. Use printed charts, whiteboards, or digital tools for tracking.
2. Use medication reminders
Set up phone alarms, use smart pill dispensers, or place visual reminders in key areas like the kitchen or bathroom.
3. Simplify the regimen
Ask the prescribing GP or pharmacist about reducing dosing frequency or combining medications into single tablets.
4. Switch to Webster-paks or blister packs
Webster-paks, prepared by pharmacies, sort medications into clear time-based compartments. They reduce errors for people taking 5 or more medications daily.
5. Involve a caregiver
A family member or caregiver can support routine, provide reminders, and alert professionals when issues arise. This is critical for patients with dementia.
6. Schedule regular nurse visits
In-home nurses from Nightingale Nurses at Home (NNAH) can assist with medication administration, dose monitoring, and education.
7. Provide patient education
Explain the purpose, potential side effects, and benefits of each medication in clear terms to improve understanding and cooperation.
How do nurses support medication adherence?
Registered nurses play a central role in managing medications at home. Their responsibilities include:
- Administering medications as prescribed
- Observing and documenting patient response
- Updating medication charts and care notes
- Coordinating with GPs and pharmacists
- Educating patients and carers about drug safety
Nightingale Nurses at Home offers trained RNs for short-term recovery or long-term chronic care support across Sydney. Services include Webster-pak administration, wound care, PRN medication oversight, and care plan coordination.
When should you call Nightingale Nurses at Home?
You should contact NNAH for nurse support if any of the following occur:
- Medications are regularly missed or duplicated
- The person is unable to explain what each medication is for
- Pills are left in blister packs or found scattered
- The patient has recently returned home from hospital
- A new medication has been added to the regimen
NNAH provides qualified RNs who can visit your home to assess, chart, and administer medications correctly. We support aged care clients, NDIS participants, and post-discharge patients across Sydney.
To book a medication assessment or recurring nurse visits, contact NNAH today.
What if you’re still concerned about medication safety?
If adherence issues continue despite reminders and routines, it’s important to seek professional help. You can:
- Request a medication review from the GP or pharmacist
- Book a nurse visit to assess medication practices
- Consider integrating nurse-led care into a Home Care Package (Now Support at home package) or NDIS plan
Medication management is safer with professional oversight. Nurse visits reduce risk, improve consistency, and give families peace of mind.
Medication adherence improves with the right systems, support, and education. Contact Nightingale Nurses at Home to organise professional in-home nursing and medication support tailored to your care needs.