FOR FAMILY & CAREGIVERS
Support their care.
Respect their voice.
Start by asking what kind of help the person wants. A shared plan works best when roles and preferences are clear.
1. Agree on the help
Ask whether the person wants help organizing a list, preparing questions, setting up their existing routine, or attending a visit. Discuss what information they want to share and with whom.
2. Gather the current information
Use medication containers and existing instructions to prepare a dated list. Include nonprescription products and supplements. Mark anything uncertain for a pharmacist or clinician to check.
3. Keep one current list
Agree who will update the list after a visit and how others will know which version is current. A paper list is useful; a digital tool is optional.
4. Take questions to the care team
Write down difficulties with the routine, unclear instructions, and questions about medicines. Help the person explain what matters to them. Do not change doses or instructions on their behalf without direction from their clinician.
5. Revisit the arrangement
Care needs and preferences change. Review who can access information and remove access when it is no longer wanted or needed.
A simple place to start
“What would make managing your medication information easier this week?”
Print a medication-list worksheetEducational reading: AHRQ’s teach-back tool and medication communication discussion. Resource prepared September 29, 2026.