Our age not only affects the way we look, think, and act but also the way we react to certain medications. This is what providers of home care in Memphis, Tennessee have noticed over the years.
When we’re young, some medications can interfere with our body’s normal development. For example, corticosteroids that are used for so many health conditions are usually only given to growing children for long periods of time. This is only done when necessary because they stunt the child’s growth.
As we age, even if we stay the same size and shape as our younger selves, it changes the way our bodily systems function – and how they process medication. Factors such as your muscle mass, amount of body fat, liver activity, and kidney function affect how your body responds to different medicines.
Even if you maintain a healthy weight throughout your life, body fat still increases with age. More body fat can affect how long some medications stay in your tissues, so it may take longer for your body to get rid of the drug.
Skin medications also affect us differently as we get older. Since our skin becomes thinner with age, our bodies may absorb higher levels of the active ingredients in creams, gels, rubs, patches, and lotions.
Caregivers can help seniors better manage their medication and doses, especially the ones with complicated conditions.
If you have questions about our other services, including our respite care services in Tennessee, you can contact us at 901-614-1500.
