Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the challenges faced by those with Alzheimer’s, as well as their caregivers, is managing medication. As the disease progresses, memory loss and confusion can make it difficult for a person with Alzheimer’s to properly take their pills. This is where a pill splitter can be a helpful tool. In this article, we will discuss how to effectively use a pill splitter to assist a person with Alzheimer’s in taking their medication.
What is a Pill Splitter?
A pill splitter is a small handheld device designed to cut pills into smaller pieces. It is especially useful for those who have difficulty swallowing large pills or need to take smaller doses of medication. It is a cost-effective alternative to buying multiple strengths of the same medication.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Before helping a person with Alzheimer’s use a pill splitter, gather all the necessary supplies. These include the pill splitter, the medication bottle, a cup of water, and a towel or tissue.
Step 2: Prepare the Pill Splitter
To ensure the accuracy of the pill split, clean the pill splitter with soap and water before each use. Next, set the pill splitter to the desired dosage. Most pill splitters have adjustable arms that allow you to set the desired size of the pill.
Step 3: Identify the Pill
It is crucial to correctly identify the pill before splitting it. This is especially important for those with Alzheimer’s, as they may have difficulty remembering what medications they are taking. Check the label on the pill bottle to confirm the name, dosage, and shape of the pill. If needed, ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist for assistance.
Step 4: Split the Pill
Place the pill in the designated area on the pill splitter and press down on the arms of the splitter to cut the pill into two equal halves. For larger pills, it may be necessary to cut them into smaller pieces. Be sure to hold the pill securely as it may slip and cause an inaccurate split. Some pill splitters come with a storage compartment to keep the split pills in one place.
Step 5: Assist with Taking the Pill
After splitting the pill, offer it to the person with Alzheimer’s in a cup or on a spoon. Remind them to take sips of water to help swallow the pill. If necessary, use a towel or tissue to gently wipe their mouth after taking the medication.
Additional Tips:
– Always wash your hands before and after using a pill splitter to avoid contamination.
– Store the pill splitter in a dry, clean place when not in use.
– If the person with Alzheimer’s has difficulty swallowing pills, consider crushing the pill and mixing it with food or liquid. However, always check with a healthcare professional before crushing any medication as some may lose their effectiveness when crushed.
– Never split pills without consulting a healthcare professional first. Some medications should not be split, as it can affect their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions.
– Keep a record of when the medication was given and how much was taken to ensure proper dosage.
In conclusion, using a pill splitter can be an effective way to assist a person with Alzheimer’s in taking their medication. By following these steps and taking necessary precautions, you can help ensure the correct dosage is taken. As always, be patient and understanding with the person with Alzheimer’s, and seek professional advice whenever needed.
