Find low-tech ways to jog memory

Some people with diabetes swallow up to nine tablets a day; getting a diabetic to take medications on time, at the right dose, and as prescribed can feel like a part-time job. Simple, inexpensive ways to help him remember to take medications include pill containers with compartments labeled for days and times.

• You or another caregiver or family member could call at specific times of day to remind the person -- some aging-related service organizations also offer a telephone reminder service, or you could outsource the task to a private service such as memotext.
• In addition, keep medications in one handy designated container and place, such as the person's bedroom or living room, unless they require refrigeration or another specific kind of storage.
• Help him figure out a pill-taking plan that fits into his daily routine. Try to tie medication taking to a ritual: For example, some diabetes drugs should be taken before eating, so place a sticky note on the cupboard door where he keeps his plates as a visual cue that it's drug-taking time.

Let high-tech gadgets do the job

Sometimes, an advanced technological solution is more helpful for addressing forgetfulness.

• One method uses software and a computer's internal clock to prompt a person to take his pills. Afterward, he presses a key to confirm that the task has been done.
• Automated pillboxes, clocks, watches, or timers that beep when it's time for to take medications are available at a variety of prices and from several sources including E-pill. One computerized device can dispense up to ten prescriptions at scheduled times and lets you know when a refill is needed or when a dosage has been missed. This advanced system comes with a price tag of around $250 per month, though.
• Some dispensers allow you to track a patient's medication schedule online, while others contact you when a dose isn't dispensed properly.
• You can learn more about some of these automatic medication dispensers at Technology for Long Term Care, a free government-sponsored resource.