health care life coach

The Relationship Between Nicotine and Sleep Disruption

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Lighted cigarette supported on ashtray. No peopleWritten by Pat Crilley

Nicotine is a chemical found in tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and many modern e-cigarettes. It acts as a stimulant by triggering the release of dopamine and adrenaline, which increases alertness and heart rate. However, this stimulation can interfere with the body’s natural sleep processes. Sleep disruption refers to difficulties in falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep. Individuals who use nicotine frequently report shorter sleep duration and lower sleep quality. This pattern can affect both mental and physical health over time. Healthcare professionals should monitor this connection closely, as poor sleep worsens chronic conditions, affects mood regulation, and impacts treatment outcomes. Understanding the link between nicotine and sleep disruption supports better clinical decision-making and patient guidance.

How Nicotine Affects Sleep Architecture

Nicotine affects sleep by disrupting the natural flow of sleep architecture. It reduces the amount of time spent in both deep sleep and REM sleep, which are needed for body repair and mental restoration. These changes often lead to lighter, less restful sleep. Sleep cycles become shorter, and users tend to wake up more often throughout the night. As the stimulant effects of nicotine remain active in the system, falling asleep can also take longer. Non-users typically transition more smoothly through the sleep stages without repeated interruptions. On the other hand, those who use nicotine often experience increased restlessness and poor sleep continuity. The overall structure of their sleep becomes fragmented. Deep and REM stages are replaced by light sleep, which leaves the person feeling tired even after several hours in bed. Hence, consistent nicotine use gradually breaks down healthy sleep patterns.

The Role of Nicotine’s Half-Life in Nighttime Wakefulness

Nicotine stays active in the body for about two hours after use. This duration, known as its half-life, keeps the brain stimulated well into the night. The body stays alert, making it harder to wind down. Users often feel restless long after they stop smoking or vaping. The stimulating effect continues to interfere with the natural drop in heart rate and brain activity needed for rest. In contrast, those who avoid nicotine usually fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Nicotine keeps triggering arousals that interrupt the sleep cycle. These interruptions delay entry into deep, restorative sleep. Users often struggle with falling asleep and staying asleep. Then again, lighter sleep replaces the rest the brain and body need. The lingering presence of nicotine causes ongoing wakefulness and prevents the body from reaching a truly restful state.

Nicotine Withdrawal During Sleep Hours

Nicotine levels in the body begin to drop during sleep, which triggers withdrawal symptoms in regular users. These symptoms often include irritability, sweating, and waking up frequently. The brain reacts to the absence of nicotine with increased alertness and discomfort. Users may wake up multiple times and struggle to fall back asleep. These interruptions break the flow of natural sleep cycles.

Besides, those not dependent on nicotine usually experience more consistent and uninterrupted rest. Cravings often intensify in the second half of the night, making it harder to return to sleep after waking. The brain stays active and agitated, reducing sleep quality. Then again, this pattern leads to fatigue and mood swings during the day.  Nicotine withdrawal during the night directly contributes to fragmented sleep and poor overall rest.

Smoking Before Bed is a Hidden Barrier to Deep Sleep

Many people think smoking before bed brings calm, however the effect is misleading. The nervous system becomes overstimulated due to increased heart rate and alertness caused by nicotine. This stimulation affects neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, which control arousal and rest cycles. The disruption in these chemicals impacts sleep structure and delays deeper stages. The problem grows worse because nicotine’s role in brain activity heightens stimulation right when the brain should be slowing down. As a result, users spend less time in restorative sleep and more time in lighter stages. They often wake up and struggle to fall back asleep. With this in mind, even a single bedtime cigarette can break the body’s rhythm. People who smoke late often report feeling tired even after a full night in bed.

Nicotine in Vapes is a Modern Delivery, Same Sleep Disruption

Vaping delivers nicotine in a modern form, but the effects on sleep remain similar to traditional smoking. The method may feel cleaner or less intense, yet the stimulant response in the body stays the same. Users inhale vaporized nicotine, which enters the bloodstream quickly and triggers alertness and increased heart rate. Its damaging effects can also cause vein conditions. It disrupts the body’s ability to relax at night. The stimulating effect interferes with melatonin production and delays sleep onset.

Nicotine and sleep disruption, in this case, stay closely linked regardless of delivery method. Many users report restlessness after evening vaping sessions, often waking during the night or struggling to fall asleep. The perception that vaping is less disruptive proves inaccurate. As a matter of fact, the brain receives similar signals to stay alert, even when the user feels relaxed.

Nicotine and Sleep in Adolescents and Young Adults

Adolescents and young adults face greater risks from nicotine due to ongoing brain development. Their developing brains react more intensely, which increases the chance of early dependence. This early use interrupts sleep regulation. Frequent nicotine exposure throws off natural sleep timing and lowers overall rest quality. Then again, many young users overlook these changes and blame tiredness on school, social life, or stress. Above all, these patterns begin early and often worsen over time. Not to mention, consistent nicotine use during adolescence affects both short-term rest and long-term sleep health well into adulthood.

The Circadian System and Nicotine’s Disruptive Influence

Nicotine disrupts the body’s internal clock by interfering with melatonin production. This hormone helps regulate the circadian rhythm and signals the body to prepare for sleep. In contrast, nicotine increases alertness and delays melatonin release, especially when used in the evening. The brain receives conflicting cues—one pushing for rest, the other for wakefulness. This confusion delays sleep onset and shortens total sleep time. The natural rhythm that aligns with daylight and darkness shifts out of sync. As nicotine use continues, sleep patterns become irregular, and waking during the night becomes more common. Users may feel tired but struggle to enter deep, restorative sleep. Nicotine disrupts the body’s ability to follow its normal sleep-wake schedule. In short, the combination of delayed melatonin and overstimulation reduces sleep efficiency and leaves users feeling unrested even after several hours in bed.

Nicotine Replacement Therapies: Friend or Foe for Sleep?

Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as patches, gum, and lozenges help reduce withdrawal symptoms and increase the rate of quitting by 50 to 70% but may affect sleep differently. Patches deliver nicotine slowly through the skin and often keep levels steady overnight. This steady release can lead to vivid dreams, difficulty falling asleep, or frequent waking. Gum and lozenges, used during the day, wear off by bedtime and tend to cause fewer sleep problems. Many users report better rest when avoiding the nighttime use of long-acting NRTs.

On the other hand, using a patch too close to bedtime often delays sleep onset due to lingering stimulation. Then again, short-acting options may help reduce cravings without lasting into sleep hours. Choosing the right form and timing of NRT can make a difference in sleep quality. Those struggling with nicotine and sleep disruption should avoid overnight nicotine delivery and focus on daytime-only strategies.

Clinical Implications and What Healthcare Providers Should Monitor

Healthcare providers should routinely ask patients about sleep patterns during tobacco use consultations. Many users do not connect nicotine with sleep problems unless prompted. Brief sleep assessments can uncover signs of restlessness, early waking, or nighttime cravings. Tracking these symptoms helps tailor treatment plans more effectively.

 

On the other hand, ignoring the sleep-nicotine connection may limit the success of cessation efforts. Withdrawal-related sleep complaints often trigger a relapse, especially during the first weeks of quitting. Providers should document withdrawal patterns and adjust nicotine replacement therapies based on timing and severity. Combining sleep management with cessation improves patient outcomes. Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia can support progress during nicotine withdrawal. Assessing sleep and addressing it alongside tobacco use helps create practical, patient-centred care plans that reduce both relapse and fatigue.

 

Comorbid Mental Health Conditions and Nicotine-Related Sleep Disturbances

People with anxiety, depression, or insomnia often use nicotine to manage symptoms, but this pattern can worsen sleep problems over time. Nicotine overstimulates the nervous system, increases heart rate, and interferes with neurotransmitters tied to mood and rest. Not to mention, withdrawal during the night can trigger irritability, panic, or sadness, especially in those with existing mental health conditions. Dual-diagnosis patients—those with both psychiatric and substance use disorders—report higher rates of sleep disturbances compared to the general population. Then again, many continue using nicotine for temporary relief without realizing it prolongs insomnia and worsens mental fatigue. For this reason, treatment plans should address both mental health symptoms and nicotine habits. In short, managing nicotine use in patients with anxiety, depression, or insomnia supports better emotional stability and improves long-term sleep quality.

Addressing Nicotine and Sleep Disruption for Better Patient Outcomes

Nicotine and sleep disruption are strongly linked through their effects on brain activity, sleep cycles, and rest quality. Healthcare providers should consider both substance use and sleep when treating patients. Addressing these factors together improves long-term outcomes. Reducing nicotine use—especially at night—supports better sleep and overall health. Monitoring habits and providing tailored care can make lasting improvements in both areas.

 

Author’s Bio:

Pat Crilley is a graduate of Indian River State College and currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of ARH Medical Group. He is also the Executive Director at Harmony Ridge Recovery Center, where he focuses on integrated behavioral health solutions. Outside of work, Pat enjoys hiking, playing guitar, and trying every local coffee shop he can find.

 

References:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5003586/

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Health Care Life Coach Certification programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

Moving more: the unexpected health benefits of increasing your steps

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

a couple walking a dog in the parkWritten by Harriet O’Neil,

With many people prioritizing convenience and becoming more reliant on technology, our lifestyles are only getting more sedentary – in fact, lots of us spend the majority of our days sitting down, whether at our desks, in the car, or at home relaxing. Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to overlook the impact that this can have on our health.

High-intensity workouts can be intimidating to many, so for an accessible way to stay active, medical professionals should promote walking as an easy and simple way to stay healthy. 

In addition to the well-known benefits of increasing step count, there are some more unexpected ways your health could get a boost when you walk more. From supporting mental wellbeing to helping the body fight diseases, here’s why staying active is a great way to take care of the body and mind.

Cognitive function and brain health

We know that walking benefits the cardiovascular system, but it’s less often that we discuss the impact of walking on cognitive function and brain health. Regular walking has been shown to enhance memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, thanks to the release of hormones that boost neuron generation as a result of increased blood flow to the brain. In addition, getting extra steps may reduce your risk of developing Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Mental health and mood

Walking stimulates the release of ‘happy’ hormones, such as endorphins and serotonin, which help us to feel good. It can also reduce cortisol levels, helping us to feel calm and centered.

Studies have found that the more vigorously a person walks, the higher their reported mental health perceptions – so it’s worth picking up the pace for a true mood boost. However, even ten minutes or so of gentle walking can help many people to feel better.

Many mental health professionals offer walking therapy, whereby the therapist provides counselling to their patients outside the usual four walls of the therapy room. Walking and talking can be a great way to open up, clear your mind, and feel better about issues that are troubling you.

Joint health and mobility

As a low-impact exercise, walking can be excellent for preventing joint and mobility issues, and can also help to alleviate the symptoms for those who already have them. Walking prompts synovial fluid to be released in the joints, helping to lubricate them, which can be particularly beneficial for people with arthritis or joint stiffness, allowing them to become more mobile while increasing their fitness.

Because the muscles around our joints are worked when we walk, we can build up strength in these areas over time. Not only does this boost mobility, but it can also make us more resistant to injuries. With stronger muscles, you’re less likely to hurt yourself during exertion, and even if there is an unfortunate accident, muscles can help to cushion the blow and protect your joints. 

Sleep quality

For people who struggle with sleep, walking during the day may help. Physical activity helps regulate the circadian rhythm by stimulating the release of melatonin, which helps us to feel alert during the day and sleepy at night – this aids us in getting a good night’s sleep.

Of course, a more vigorous walk will help to tire you out, setting you up for an even deeper night’s sleep. However, any amount of steps can be beneficial for improving sleep quality. As  walking also has a positive impact on our mental health, it can help you to feel more relaxed at bedtime, too.

Social connections and community

It’s common for people to join social walking groups, take walks with a friend, or even greet neighbors on short strolls around the neighborhood. Because of this, increasing daily steps can also boost opportunities for social interaction, which can have a positive impact on physical and mental health.

The health benefits of socializing include a reduced risk of experiencing loneliness, anxiety and depression. It may also lower your risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure and impaired immune function.

A gateway healthy habit

Perhaps one of the most unexpected benefits of regularly walking is that it can have a knock-on effect on other healthy habits. For example, someone who starts walking and enjoys it may then go on to try a sport or other physical activity.

This may also extend to other areas of life. Those who focus on getting enough steps each day may then begin to make healthy changes to their diet, stress management, or sleep hygiene. In essence, once positive behavior leads to another, and simply getting into walking can often lead to a more proactive, positive mindset about overall health and self-care.

How can healthcare professionals encourage movement?

For many people, fitting in the recommended amount of steps each day simply isn’t feasible among other responsibilities. For example, commuting long distances to work at a desk will inevitably lead to less time spent walking. However, healthcare professionals can do their bit by encouraging those who don’t have the time to try online exercise instead, which they can do from the comfort of their homes each morning or evening – or even at the office during their lunch break.

It’s important to note that some people may not have access to safe walking areas, while others may not know just how much walking can impact their health. It’s a healthcare professional’s job to educate the public on the benefits of walking – and the risks of not moving enough – and to help find a solution if a patient finds it difficult to get out to take a walk.

By spreading awareness of the health benefits of getting enough steps, as well as acknowledging barriers to exercise, health professionals will be better equipped to support the community and advocate for their patients.

Author bio: Harriet O’Neil

Harriet is a healthcare professional who understands the value and importance of getting the recommended amount of daily steps. She supports her patients to improve their fitness and find joy in low-impact exercise.

References

Wojtys, E. M. (2015). Keep on Walking. Sports Health: A Multidisciplinary Approach, 7(4), 297–298. https://doi.org/10.1177/1941738115590392 

Han, A., Kim, J., & Kim, J. (2021). A Study of Leisure Walking Intensity Levels on Mental Health and Health Perception of Older Adults. Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, 7(1-8), 233372142199931. https://doi.org/10.1177/2333721421999316 

‌CDC. (2024, May 15). Health Effects of Social Isolation and Loneliness. Social Connection; CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/risk-factors/index.html

Virtual exercise trends | Compare the Market. (2025). Comparethemarket.com; Compare the Market. https://www.comparethemarket.com/life-insurance/content/online-exercise/ 

  

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Health Care Life Coach Certification programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

Evaluating the Sustainability of Diet Trends: A Deep Dive into Ketogenic Practices

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

an array of keto friendly foodsWritten by Veronica Turner

In the wonderful world of health and happiness, eating patterns come and go just like the changing of seasons. From low-fat to low-carb, plant-based to paleo, the options seem endless, and each promises a journey to better well-being and zest for life.

One such trend that has captured the imagination of many is the ketogenic way of eating. But among all the exciting results of weight management success stories and mental boosts, it’s important to take a moment and consider the bigger picture impacts of our food choices.

What effect do diet fads like keto have on our planet’s well-being? In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the sustainability of keto habits, looking at how they interact with environmental protection and holistic health approaches supported by medical professionals.

 

Understanding the Ketogenic Diet: Beyond Bacon and Butter

The ketogenic diet has taken the nutrition world by storm with its focus on healthy fats and low-carb living. By emphasizing satisfying foods like avocados, nuts, and meat over sugary snacks and starches, this lifestyle helps slimmers say sayonara to belly fat.

The science behind it is simple – by trimming carbs down to a minimum, your body enters a natural fat-burning state called ketosis. Then, instead of crashing from blood sugar spikes and falls, you smoothly fuel up on the keto-friendly foods your genes were designed for.

While debates still swirl around long-term impact, one thing is clear – this approach makes sticking to a healthy routine effortless when you’re feeling full and fabulous every day.

 

The Environmental Impact of Ketogenic Practices: Beyond the Plate

When assessing how the ketogenic way of eating lifts up our planet, it’s important to look beyond personal wellness gains and consider how our choices impact the world around us.

This dietary trend has the potential to positively shape environments, communities, and global systems in some surprising ways if we make informed decisions and carry the principles of caring for our bodies into caring for our shared home. Excited yet? Let’s explore the possibilities!

 

  1. Organic Farming Practices: Cultivating Sustainability from the Ground

Organic farming is key to creating the amazing ingredients for all the best keto meal kits and recipes out there! Instead of depending on a lot of artificial pesticides and fertilizers like traditional farming, organic methods prioritize keeping soil and nature healthy.

Biodiversity and natural pest control are the name of the game. By choosing organic agriculture, keto folks help support soil sustainability and reduce pollution runoff that can hurt the earth. Choosing organic is a win-win for both your body and Mother Nature!

 

  1. Reducing Carbon Footprint Through Minimal Packaging: Thinking Outside the Box

While convenient packaging has its perks, we must consider our impact on the planet. These days, it seems everything comes pre-wrapped and ready to go. But all that plastic and packaging adds up fast!

The good news is that more and more keto brands are minimizing waste. They use eco-friendly materials that break down naturally. Or they go with packaging you can recycle curbside.

Take meal kit delivery services like Greenchef, for example. It delivers healthy keto meals wrapped in sustainable packaging. Plus, using a meal delivery service instead of going shopping significantly reduces your carbon footprint.

Opting for these greener options is a tasty way to feel good. You’re supporting companies who care about our shared home. And you’re doing your part to send less to the landfill. Small changes collectively make a difference.

 

  1. Responsible Sourcing of Proteins: Casting a Net for Sustainability

Protein plays an important role in many ketogenic diets, as followers commonly eat meat, poultry, and fish. However, the environmental impact of these protein sources differs greatly depending on how they are raised or caught.

By selecting proteins from sustainable sources, like wild-caught fish, people can reduce the effects of their food decisions on the planet and support the humane treatment of animals.

Environmental-conscious organizations, like Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, offer helpful tools and tips for choosing seafood that won’t harm marine life, giving consumers knowledge to decide on healthy protein options for both humans and the environment.

 

  1. Minimizing Food Waste: From Farm to Fork

We all know that a ketogenic diet focuses on feeling our best through wholesome, unprocessed nutrients. But did you know that what we don’t eat can make just as big an impact?

Global food waste accounts for around 8% of greenhouse gasses each year. As keto kings and queens, cutting down on leftovers is our chance to feel good inside and out.

Meal prep is the key – planning healthy keto meals and only cooking what you’ll truly enjoy means less ends up forgotten in the back of the fridge.

Portion control is also our secret weapon, dishing perfect plates to satisfy without stuffing. And get creative with leftovers! Scramble eggs with yesterday’s steak or blend smoothies from last night’s salad – your trash will be someone else’s treat.

Once we’ve made the most of our meals, composting organic scraps does wonders. Those peelings and bones give back to Mother Nature, building rich soil and growing more nutritious plants. So by loving our bodies with low-carb eats and loving the earth in return, we nourish ourselves while nurturing our planet, too.

 

  1. Supporting Local Food Systems: Nurturing Community Resilience

There are so many positive ways we can promote sustainability within our ketogenic lifestyles! Connecting with local food systems is a fun and impactful choice.

When purchasing fresh foods directly from nearby farms and producers, we reduce carbon emissions from long-distance shipping while strengthening our community ties. Farmers’ markets offer a great shopping experience surrounded by ingredients perfect for keto recipes.

Community farms welcome volunteers to experience farm life firsthand. And farm-to-table restaurants pride themselves on sourcing from sustainable growers right in their backyard.

 

  1. Embracing Plant-Based Alternatives: Cultivating a Greener Plate

More and more people are discovering the benefits of a plant-powered ketogenic diet. Options like avocado, coconut, and olive oil deliver all the healthy fats your body needs to feel its best. No animals are harmed, and it is way better for the environment, too!

Can’t forget about protein – tofu, tempeh, and beans are awesome alternatives that support sustainability. Your health and the health of the planet both win with a keto approach featuring fabulous plant foods. Feel good knowing you’re nourishing yourself and nurturing the earth.

 

Conclusion: Striking a Balance for Health and Planet

The ketogenic diet is all about feeling your best through nourishing meals while saving the planet. As a growing movement, keto has the power to promote wellness from the individual to the global level. By choosing organic and locally sourced ingredients, reducing food waste, and even finding plant-based keto swaps, we can feel good while doing good for the planet.

Whether it’s shopping at farmers’ markets to support small growers, bulk meal prepping to eliminate excess packaging, or flexitarians exploring veggie-focused keto recipes, every decision moves us closer to healthier people and a healthier planet.

This journey is all about constant improvement – taking even small steps to align our nutrition with sustainability. Each meal is an opportunity to fuel our bodies and drive positive change. Together, through mindful choices, we can thrive on keto in a way that allows the earth and future generations to thrive, too.

 

Author Bio: Veronica Turner is a health and lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience. She creates compelling content on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Health Care Certification programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

Factors Influencing Medication Compliance in Elderly Patients

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Elderly patient receiving careWritten by Sam Darwin

The elderly population is growing at an unprecedented rate. According to population reports, the number of people aged 65 and over is expected to double by 2050. Along with this increase in life expectancy comes an increase in chronic health conditions. Many of these chronic conditions are managed with medication. This means that an increasing number of older adults take many medications daily to improve their quality of life. But taking different drugs can be hard, and many older people have trouble sticking to their treatment plan.

Not taking medications as prescribed is a big problem among older people, and it can have bad results. It can make drug treatments less effective and lead to hospitalization, a loss of cognitive function, or even death. This article will discuss the factors that influence medication compliance in elderly patients.

Medication compliance is the degree to which patients follow prescribed medications. It is a significant problem in older adults due to several factors. Here are factors that influence medication compliance among elderly patients:

 

  1. Patient-Provider Relationship

An important factor influencing medication compliance is a positive patient-provider relationship in senior care. Patients comfortable talking with their doctors about their medications will take them more frequently. Those uncomfortable discussing these issues with their physicians are less likely to comply.

A primary care physician must establish a positive rapport to ensure success with their patient’s treatment plans. They can do this by taking an interest in what is happening in their lives. They should try to understand where they are coming from on medication decisions. This will help them better understand which treatments might suit each patient and which may not work out.

 

  1. Medication Knowledge

A significant factor in medication compliance is patient knowledge of their medications. Elderly patients with limited knowledge of medication use are more likely not to adhere. Patients who can identify the name and strength of their drugs will take them more frequently than those who do not. This may be due to a lack of understanding, or it may be due to a lack of information. They should know about the medication’s side effects or interactions with other drugs taken by the patient.

 

  1. Medication Side Effects Management

Medication side effects management is an essential factor for elderly patients. Side effects are common reasons patients do not take their medication as prescribed. Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects due to age-related changes in the body. These changes can make it more difficult for the body to process and eliminate medications. As a result, side effects may be more severe in elderly patients.

Besides, it’s also important to note that many elderly patients experience side effects from their medication. These side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. Most side effects can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication dosage adjustments. Managing severe side effects will make the patients comply with the medications.

 

  1. Patients’ Beliefs

Patients’ beliefs about medicine are vital. They can affect their decision-making regarding medication compliance. Patients may have misconceptions about medications and their effects on the body. For example, patients may believe certain medications may cause side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness.

Some patients may believe that a prescription drug is more effective than another one in treating a condition. These beliefs can influence their decision-making as they weigh whether it is worth taking medication. They can decide if it is safe to take an alternative treatment instead.

Doctors can also treat the soul than just the dying body. Please also review our Pastoral Thanatology Program

  1. Social Support

Social support is another factor that influences medication compliance among elderly individuals. Social support refers to the presence of family, friends, and community members. These are people who provide emotional support during stress or illness. Social support has a positive impact on patient compliance with medication regimens. Individuals with social support are less likely to miss or need extra doses because they rely on others for help when needed.

 

  1. Reduction in the Number of Medications

The number of medications a patient takes is one factor that may influence adherence. For elderly patients, many medications are often prescribed as part of the treatment plan for various conditions. These conditions may be chronic or acute and demand different treatment regimens. As a result, elderly patients may have various prescriptions from physicians or healthcare providers.

The high number of medications taken by elderly patients often leads to confusion. This is especially regarding prescription drugs’ dose, frequency, and duration. Reducing the number or substituting one medication with another will make patients adhere.

  1. Cost of Medication

The cost of medicine is an essential factor that influences medication compliance. This is because the elderly are more likely to be on fixed incomes. This makes it difficult for them to afford the cost of taking their medicines. Moreover, it may be costly for them to purchase the treatment or fill prescriptions at a pharmacy.

Uninsured or underinsured patients may not be able to afford the medications they need to treat their illnesses. These factors play a significant role in increased patient non-compliance with their prescribed medications. It is essential to consider whether a drug is truly needed or merely being used to mask symptoms rather than treating the root cause of the disease.

 

  1. Medication Accessibility

Medication accessibility is another factor that influences patient compliance with their prescribed medications. Medications are often unavailable at pharmacies or hospitals. This leads to increased reliance on self-medication or self-prescription. Self-prescription involves patients purchasing medicines from other sources. These could be pharmacies and drug stores rather than their primary care provider or pharmacy.

Elderly patients can also have difficulty accessing their medications. This could be due to a lack of transportation, income limitations, or other financial constraints. Easy accessibility to a primary doctor near me ensures medical compliance.

 

  1. Patient’s Understanding of their Medical Condition

The most crucial factor in medication compliance is the patient’s understanding of their medical condition. If patients understand the reason for taking medication, they will be more likely to take it as directed. Patients should also be taught how to store their drugs properly and reduce side effects.

 

Conclusion

Patients who feel they have little or no say in their medical decisions are less likely to do what doctors tell them to do. Doctors should ensure their patients understand why they are being given medications. Sometimes it’s hard for older people to remember to take all their medicines. Thus, family doctors near me must know this when they write prescriptions. Patients must be knowledgeable about their medications, have access to them, and know when and how to take them.

 

FAQ

  1. What are some common reasons elderly patients might not comply with their medication regimen?

Several factors can influence medication compliance in elderly patients. Poor eyesight and hearing can make it difficult to understand dosing instructions or follow medication schedules. Patients may also forget to take their medications.

  1. What are some of the consequences of poor medication compliance in elderly patients?

Poor compliance can lead to various consequences. These include decreased quality of life, increased risk of hospitalization, and even death.

  1. How can caregivers and loved ones help ensure that elderly patients take their medications as prescribed?

First, it is important to make sure that the elderly patient understands why they are taking the medication. Caregivers and loved ones should remind the older adults the dosage and time to take the medications.

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Health Care Life Coaching Certificate and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Life Coaching.

Healthcare Life Coach Program Blog on Coach or Therapist?

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

The differences between a coach and a therapist and likewise a certified only counselor and a licensed counselor is important.  Obviously a licensed therapist can become certified as a coach or certified counselor in a particular field, but many professionals may be only certified and a coach but not licensed.   Licensed professionals can supply treatment for trauma that is beyond basic healing.  They deal with the past and pathological issues that result from trauma.  Coaches deal more with natural loss or help with the present and future.  It is important to know yourself and what you need in choosing merely a certified professional or a licensed or licensed/certified professional.

Do you need a certified only professional or a licensed professional in counseling? Please also review AIHCP’s Life Coach Program

 

The article, “How To Know If You Need A Coach Or A Therapist: 6 Differences To Consider” by Stephanie Catahan looks closer at the differences between a coach and therapist.  She states,

“Maybe you’ve noticed an increase in people talking about therapy and coaching. Your partner has a therapist to manage their anxiety. Your neighbor has a coach to sharpen her leadership skills. Maybe you yourself are trying to decide whether to hire a therapist or a coach to guide you through stress management of becoming a new parent or another kind of major life transition, but you don’t know where to start.  Although therapy and coaching might come up in the same conversation, there are important key factors to consider before deciding whether to work with a coach or therapist.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Healthcare Life Coach Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a Life Coach.