Maintaining Independence for Longer: Supporting Loved Ones Affected by Alzheimer’s

World Alzheimers Day, September 21

Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia that affects millions of individuals globally, can be a complex and emotional journey, both for those diagnosed and their loved ones or caregivers.  It can lead to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty in performing even the simplest daily tasks.

One of the most critical aspects of managing Alzheimer’s is managing medications safely and effectively, ensuring the right doses are taken at the right times. For caregivers, this responsibility can be overwhelming, yet innovative solutions like Webster-pak® medication packs are crucial tools that not only simplify medication management but also empower patients to maintain their independence for longer.

“Webster-paks are a medication packaging system that simplify the process of taking multiple medications at different times of the day – a blister pack containing pre-sorted medications, organised by day and time. The packaging is clear, with each compartment labelled with the day of the week and the specific dosage time. This eliminates the need for carers to sort and measure their patient or relative’s medications, reducing the risk of errors and promoting greater independence,” says Pharmacist Danielle Martusciello.

Key Benefits at a Glance:

• Relieving Anxiety: With clear labelling and pre-arranged doses, Webster-paks reduce the stress and anxiety often associated with medication management.
• Ensuring Safety: By eliminating the need to handle multiple pill bottles, Webster-paks minimise the risk of accidental errors.
• Supporting Caregivers: Caregivers can shift their focus from complex medication schedules to providing emotional support and companionship.
• Enhancing Adherence: Consistent medication intake, facilitated by Webster-paks, leads to better symptom management and improved overall health.

Gerard Stevens AM, Founder and Managing Director of Webstercare, the company behind the Webster-pak®, shares his perspective; “Helping with medication can be hard and time-consuming for caregivers. Many feel unsure as their role changes. Families might not know when or how to take over medication tasks, especially as the disease gets worse. Webster-paks do more than just organise medicine – they help Alzheimer’s patients manage their health and keep their independence and dignity. Our aim is to make taking medication easier and with greater assurance. We want patients and their loved ones to have more quality time together and peace of mind with medication.”

How to set up a Webster-pak® medication management system

For over 40 years, the Webster-pak – an Australian-invented and owned medication system – has brought relief to thousands of families.

• Contact your pharmacy. It is important to have all medication information in the one place.
• Your pharmacist will go through and confirm all the medications you are taking, and contact your doctor if necessary to be 100% certain the Webster-pak is set up correctly.
• Ask your pharmacist to set you up with a Webster-pak. Your pharmacist will manage your scripts and supply a week’s worth of medication packed into individual dosage times, so you know exactly what needs to be taken at the right time.
• Each Webster-pak is arranged into four columns and seven rows. One column for each dosage time (breakfast, lunch, dinner, bedtime) and one row for each day of the week.
• Each week you will return your used pack to the pharmacy and collect your new pack.