Poison Prevention and Older Adults

Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug Information Center
24-hour phone: 1-800-222-1222

If you are in Arizona with an out of state cell phone call (602) 253-3334 for the local poison center.

Half of the calls made to the poison center are about adult poisonings.

All adults and especially older adults need to keep the poison control number on their refrigerator or near the phone in case of emergencies.

Home

• Keep household cleaning products in their original containers.
• Read the labels carefully and follow all instructions.
• Do not store cleaners or drinks in old food containers.
• Store household cleaning products and food away from each other so they cannot be mistaken.
• Do not mix household products together.
• Any craft materials that you use as a hobby should be kept in labeled containers and stored away from food.
• Many household items come in the same color container or in a same shape bottle. Read the label before using. 
• If you have scorpions in the house and get stung call the poison center for help with first aid.   

Medications

• Keep an up to date list of the medications that you are taking.
• Include on the list all over the counter medications and herbal medications what you are taking – vitamins, Tylenol, echinacea, etc.
• Go over the list with your doctor.
• It is a good idea to keep a copy of this list with you at all times.
• Know what each medication is for. If you don't know ask your doctor or pharmacist to help you.
• Write down when medications are to be taken.
• Ask the doctor or pharmacist to help you determine when to take medication that says take twice or three times a day.
• On your list of medications mark those that need to be taken with food and mark those that should not be taken with food.
• On your list of medications write down which side effects you should watch for and know what to do and who to contact if you experience any of the symptoms.
• Do not take anyone else's medication. No sharing!
• Try to get your prescriptions from the same pharmacy so you get to know the pharmacy staff and they can be sure to check for medications that do not go together.
• Turn the lights on when taking medication at night.
• Put on your glasses before taking any medication.
• Take all of your medication as prescribed.
• Do not save medication for the next time.
• Get rid of any medicines that have expired.
• If you have young grandchildren come over be sure that all medication is out of their reach.
• Do not take your medication in front of children. They might copy what you do.