Dignity Through Dialogue: The Power of Talking About Medications

October is Talk About Your Medicines Month, a national campaign dedicated to fostering clearer communication around medications—including prescription, over-the-counter (OTCs) drugs, and supplements. At Gilchrist, we know that open conversations about medication are especially critical in hospice settings.

Why Medication Conversations Matter at Gilchrist

In geriatric, palliative, and hospice care, medications play a vital role in managing pain, nausea, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. But with multiple medications prescribed, families, caregivers, and patients must thoroughly understand the purpose, potential side effects, and proper use of each drug.

How Gilchrist Empowers Families Through Medication Dialogue

1. Encouraging Questions and Understanding

At Gilchrist, we encourage open dialogue: “Why is this medication prescribed? What side effects might occur? Is it still needed?” These discussions empower families to advocate for comfort-focused care in alignment with patient goals.

2. Coordinated Team Approach

Our interdisciplinary team—including physicians and nurses—work together to review and adjust medication plans as needs evolve. That unified approach helps safeguard against interactions and unnecessary medications.

3. Personalized Medication Plans

When pain or symptoms change, we adjust medications to maximize relief—but never at the cost of quality of life. We support families in managing side effects like drowsiness or constipation to preserve comfort.

Tips for Families and Caregivers This October

• Bring a medication checklist—include all prescriptions, vitamins, OTCs, and supplements.
• Ask key questions: What is each medication for? How should I take it? What side effects should I watch for?
• Report all medications to the care team—don’t hold back OTC or herbal supplements.
• Request regular reviews of your loved one’s medications as their needs shift.

Why This Month Matters

Talk About Your Meds Month isn’t just a reminder—it’s a call to action. At Gilchrist, we’re committed to fostering medication safety through proactive communication, compassionate care, and ongoing partnership with families.

By talking openly about medications, you help ensure safer, more comfortable geriatric, palliative, and hospice care—honoring your loved one’s dignity and supporting every moment so they may live life to the fullest.