San Mateo, CA (Nov 10, 2008) – According to a new survey from Caring.com, baby boomers caring for an aging parent are playing an active role when it comes to decisions about their parents’ medications.

The new survey was conducted among visitors to Caring.com in September 2008 and among respondents, found three quarters of boomers had some or a great deal of influence regarding the types of medications or other treatments taken by the person for whom they were caring. And, while nearly 70 percent talked about medications with their doctor or medical provider, over half (or 55 percent) researched medication options online.

“My mother is very aware of the medications she is taking and what they are for. She knows their names, the correct dosage, sticks to the routine and doesn’t deviate from the medication that is prescribed to her. However, she isn’t aware of what new medications may be available, or how insurance coverage changes may force her to choose an alternate medication,” says Gloria Sigue, a San Francisco boomer currently caring for her 97 year old mother. “Despite the confidence she has in her doctor, she relies on me ask questions and do the research so we can make the decision on what is best for her, together.”

Recording and managing prescriptions is a primary concern for adults caring for an aging parent. Caring.com has resources and information available to help manage your parentsÔ¢ medications and recommends the following tips to ensuring medication safety:

  • Keep an accurate list of medications,
  • Make note of when they should be taken,
  • Put safeguards into place to make sure they are taking the medication exactly as prescribed.