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High Expectations

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  1. Expectations - Overview
  2. Expectation 1 You should expect to be listened to, valued, and respected
  3. Expectation 2 You should expect knowledgeable and compassionate health care
  4. Expectation 3 You should expect to get medications that will only make you feel better, not worse
  5. Expectation 4 You should expect never to be abandoned or forgotten
  6. Expectation 5 You should expect not to live a life of loneliness or depression
  7. Expectation 6 You should expect to live life as pain-free as possible
  8. Expectation 7 You should expect never to be the object of prejudice or abuse
  9. Expectation 8 You should expect to get the help you need to live life to the fullest
  10. Expectation 9 You should expect to live up to your potential and have hope for the future
  11. Expectation 10 You should expect to be in control of your life and understand what is happening to you
  12. Expectation 11 And most importantly... You should expect never to be taken advantage of except for your talents, knowledge, and wisdom
  13. Reflection Activity
  14. Course Feedback - Expectations
  1. High Expectations
  2. Expectation 3 You should expect to get medications that will only make you feel better, not worse
Lesson 4 of 14
In Progress

Expectation 3 You should expect to get medications that will only make you feel better, not worse

Robert Stall MD

Medications are meant to help you live better—not to cause confusion, discomfort, or harm. As you age, your body changes, and so can the way medications affect you. What worked well years ago might now cause unwanted side effects or interact with other medicines.

That’s why it’s essential to expect—and ask for—medications that are right for your age, condition, and unique needs. You should feel confident that any medication you’re prescribed is necessary, safe, and likely to improve your quality of life.

Sometimes, older adults are prescribed too many medications (a problem called “polypharmacy”), or they’re given medications that may not be recommended for older adults. This can lead to side effects like dizziness, confusion, drowsiness, or even falls.

The good news? You don’t have to accept this as “just part of getting older.” If a medication is making you feel worse, speak up. Your health care team should take your concerns seriously and work with you to find safer, more effective options.

Action Plan

1. Keep an Up-to-Date Medication List
Include prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and herbs. Bring this list to every appointment so your providers can check for potential interactions.

2. Ask Why Each Medication Is Needed
Questions like “What is this for?”, “How long will I need it?”, and “What are the side effects?” help ensure every medication has a clear purpose.

3. Monitor How You Feel
If you start a new medication and notice new symptoms—such as fatigue, confusion, or nausea—let your provider know right away. Even small changes matter.

4. Request a Medication Review
Ask your doctor or pharmacist to go over all your medications at least once a year. This can help identify unnecessary drugs or harmful combinations.

5. Don’t Stop Medications on Your Own
Even if something doesn’t feel right, don’t stop taking a medication without talking to your provider. Some drugs need to be adjusted slowly and safely.

You have every right to feel better—not worse—when taking medication. Expect care that’s safe, thoughtful, and always centered on your well-being.