Automatic pill dispensers provide seniors
new ways to keep track of medications

BY JA Strom —
If you sometimes get confused about which medications to take and when to take them, you're not alone. Keeping track of multiple perscriptions can become a challenge. And taking the wrong pill at the wrong time or forgetting to take it entirely can lead to worsening your condition or even death.

There are numerous devices aimed at solving this problem. They range from a simple plastic box with divisions for each day of the week to complicated electronic devices that dispense a pill at a pre-set time when an alarm sounds to alert you. In fact, there is actually a Website devoted just to pill dispensers (http://www.epill.com).

Electronic alarm devices

Several electronic devices dispense medication at preset times.

Typically, an alarm sounds when it is time to take the pills and a tray rotates into position so the appropriate ones are available. Most have a locking option so an overdose is prevented.

Some may also have a flashing light for people who are hearing impaired. These are not small devices and range in size to about 10 inches in diameter. They can be used by most seniors who are not profoundly impaired, but may be too complicated for elderly persons to set up themselves.

These brands offer a monitoring service so the remote caregiver can find out if and when medications are taken:

MedReady Medications Dispenser

Philips Medication Dispenser MD2

CompuMed® Automatic Pill Dispenser

Pharmacist as a resource

Talking RX takes another approach. The device attaches to common-sized prescription bottles and contains a memo recorder that allows a physician, pharmacist, caregiver, or patient to record necessary information about the medication. The device is re-recordable and reusable.

Information that can be recorded includes:

1. Name of medication and name of person for whom it is prescribed
   
   
2. Instructions for use, including time of day and number of capsules or tablets to take
   
   
3. Special instructions or possible side effects
   
   
4. Name and telephone numbers of physician and pharmacy
   
   
5. Expiration date and refill information, including the prescription reorder number

When the prescription bottle is empty, you can remove the Talking Rx and attach it to a refill bottle or it can be re-recorded and attached to a new prescription bottle.

Some pharmacies will dispense medications in blister paks, using a Swedish product called a Mediset.

And, with a product called Medicine On Time your personal pill cups come organized in a color coded calendar card.

The cups are filled filled by your pharmacist so you take the right pill (and the right amount) on the right day. Each cup is labeled with the precise time to take the medication. A Health Watch option includes a wristwatch programmed by your pharmacist that will sound an alarm and scroll instructions when it is time to take your medicine.

(Posted May 11, 2009)