Why this matters
People with dementia may forget doses, repeat them, or take the wrong medication. Certain sedating and anticholinergic drugs also make cognition worse.
Warning signs
- Pills left in the organizer or extra pills missing
- Confusion about what was taken
- New drowsiness or unsteadiness after a medication change
- Multiple prescribers and pharmacies
What families can do
- Move to one pharmacy and request blister or pill-pack packaging
- Use a locked box and hand out doses
- Ask for a deprescribing review at least yearly
- Keep a single up-to-date medication list, including supplements
- Set alarms or use an automated dispenser
When to get help
- Any suspected overdose or double dose
- New confusion, sedation, or falls after a change
- The person is managing medications alone and errors are occurring
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Medically reviewed. Last reviewed August 2026. This page is educational information, not individualized medical advice.