1. Medication Management Made Easier for Senior Living
Adult children face a difficult decision when choosing an assisted living environment for a parent in need. Finding a
community that offers a comfortable, homelike setting, along with one that addresses safety and medical needs is
extremely important. Technology advancements have greatly improved the management of both delivered and self-
administered medication for seniors.
Electronic Medical Administration Record (eMAR)
Electronic medication administration records (eMAR) is a software program that uses bar coding technology to submit
and fill medication prescriptions. The system uses hand-held scanners that read bar codes and utilize Bluetooth wireless
technology to transmit drug data to a terminal. The information is relayed to the pharmacy and then connected to
nursing stations. With this technology, nursing staff are assured that they have the right patient with the right
medication. The eMAR system manages prescription data including medication classification, types, dosages, number of
refills and patient refill history. The system also utilizes real-time prescription status tracking.
Electronic Prescribing (e-Scribe)
The technology of e-Scribe is being used more frequently with both physicians and pharmacies in providing improved
medication management. This software program uses paperless prescriptions that allow pharmacists to process
prescriptions electronically. Using e-Scribe technology makes it possible for pharmacies to effectively monitor patient
medication status. With e-Scribe, physicians can also directly enter and change prescriptions as needed, including
medication dosage and schedule, without needing to call or fax orders to the pharmacy. The result is a faster response
time and reduced errors that are common when paper prescriptions are used.
Automated Dispensing Carts and Cabinets
Another advancement that helps to improve the safety and efficacy of medication administration is the use of both
automated dispensing cabinets and carts. Cabinets provide computer-controlled storage, tracking, dispensing and
documentation of medication distribution. Carts provide the same medication security features but are also portable to
be used by the bedside of patients. Automated dispensing units contain drawers that lock electronically to secure
medication, further ensuring patient safety.Along with improving safety, implementing automated dispensing units aids
in accountability of medication inventory and supports improved efficiency with billing processes.

2. Self-Administered Medication Support
For seniors who are able to take their medication independently, there is newer technology to support their continued
autonomy in carrying out this important task. In regard to self-administered medication, there are devices such as multi-
alarm watches and pill boxes thatprovide reminder alerts to help seniors take their medication at the correct time.
Talking pill bottles are another technological advancement to support self-administration of medication for patients.
With these devices, providers can record a message about specific medication instructions. The instructions can be
played back as a helpful tool to assist with independent medication management for seniors.
Currently there are many important innovations in technology being utilized to improve medication management for
seniors. These useful tools facilitate increased accuracy, efficiency and overall safety of medication management for
patients. When families are faced with the decision to seek an assisted living community for seniors, an important
consideration is its use of advanced medication management to best ensure resident health and safety.
About the author:
Founded by Chris Sides and Todd Barker in 1997, Senior Solutions Management Group specializes in senior living.
SSMG works with a comprehensive network of professionals, including home health agencies, medical specialists
and hand selected vendors, to provide the highest quality living and care facilities available to senior citizens.
Senior Solutions currently has seven communities in Georgia and Tennessee, including beautiful Antebellum Grove
in Warner Robins, GA and River Oaks Place in Lenoir City, TN. Carriage House Inn, located in Shelbyville, TN, offers
independent living, as well as programs for assisted living and memory care on a long or short term basis. For more
information please visit http://www.ssmgrp.com.