Pharmacists are urging older people to ask them for help when it comes to the medications they are taking.

According to the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), research suggests that people who have to take medication for more than one condition are more likely to take this medication incorrectly.

Currently in Ireland, one in three people over the age of 65 takes five or more medications, and just 15% of those with three medical conditions say that they always take their medication without fail.

"Medicines management can be complex for older people, especially for those dealing with more than one condition. However, it really is very important for your health and quality of life that you take your medicine as instructed," commented IPU president, Kathy Maher.

She gave the following tips to help older people manage their medicines properly:

-Always check the label and read the leaflet. Follow the instructions provided and ask your pharmacist if you have any questions
-Take the medicine exactly as prescribed. Ask your pharmacist what you should do if you miss a dose
-Swallowing tablets can be difficult for some people. If this is the case for you, ask your pharmacist if a liquid form of the medication is available or if you can crush the tablets. Do not crush, break or chew tablets without speaking to your pharmacist first
-Try to take your medicines at the same time each day
-Dividing your medicine in a weekly tray can be a helpful way of making sure you do not forget to take something.

Ms Maher said that the IPU plans to engage with the Minister for Health in order to make the case for allowing pharmacists ‘to undertake a review of their older patients' medications through a one-to-one consultation with the patient'.

"Community pharmacists are the most accessible and most consulted of the healthcare professions and pharmacists have the skills to advise patients on their medication adherence. Given the benefits for older people's health outcomes, the introduction of Medicines Use Reviews is eminently sensible," she added.