Managing medication is an increasing challenge, particularly as more individuals seek to maintain independence while living in their own homes. With nearly two million people aged over 65 in the UK taking seven or more medications weekly, ensuring adherence is crucial. However, up to 50% of prescribed medicines are not taken as intended, leading to health complications and additional strain on health and social care resources.
The YourMeds project is being evaluated in Bridgend with support from Life Sciences Hub Wales (Project Lead, Louise Baker), introducing an innovative digital device that reminds users when to take their medication. This device not only supports individuals in adhering their medicines correctly but can also be linked to a Telecare Alarm Receiving Centre or family circle of care, providing proactive and preventative support, reducing the risk of emergencies, and improving overall wellbeing.
"We've seen many people benefit during the project. We've been able to support an individual come back out of a care home, and it was really inspirational to see him come home and manage his medications completely independently. It's been really lovely to see the impact that it's had on Anita, but not only Anita, but her family as well." Tom Sauter, Clinical Lead Pharmacist – Integrated community services Bridgend
Once the evaluation project is complete, an independent evaluation will be carried out by Value Based Healthcare, incorporating feedback from all the stakeholders involved, including users, families, pharmacists and domiciliary care and telecare teams.
The success of the project will be assessed with a view to long term adoption of the device and service, rollout to other regions (or nationally), as well as potential for similar support for other types of treatment, for example inhalers and eye drops.
“We’re committed to driving innovation that accelerates the delivery of social care across Wales. The YourMeds project is a prime examples of how technology can be used to meet the evolving needs of our population, enabling people to live healthier, more independent lives.” Cari-Anne Quinn, CEO, Life Sciences Hub Wales.
