Medications in Older Adults - 1 Hour

While older adults constitute 13% of the US population, they are responsible for  approximately 30% of all prescriptions and 40% of all over the counter medications sold. The average older person is prescribed eight medications for three health conditions.  Informed decision making about rational medication choices involves identifying one's goals in life.  Medications in older adults can lead to serious adverse effects that are often difficult to distinguish from common symptoms that accompany aging.

Level:  Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Track:  Elderly/Disabled Population

HUD Category:  Medications and Older Adults (Required Ongoing)

Presenter: Dr. Eileen Fingerman

Presenter Bio: Dr. Fingerman is a family physician and geriatrician who has been caring for patients in central Maine for nearly 30 years. In addition to her passion for helping older adults age in place, she has a particular interest in addiction medicine and has been the director of Suboxone clinics in central Maine. She is also board certified in integrative and holistic medicine and has a particular interest in herbal medicine, and the role of diet in health and disease. She lives in Sidney on a 40-acre organic farm with husband Tom.

Important Exam Information

This course requires you to enter a 4 digit code in the course exam in order to receive credit. The presenter will recite one digit at a time. When you hear the digit, write it down so you have it ready for the course exam.

Objectives

1. Understanding Original Medicare and Social Security basics.
2. Learn how to determine eligibility.
3. Learn how to guide someone who is aging into Medicare and/or Social Security.