As drugstores across the country continue to close their doors, a concerning trend is emerging: older people are being left in “pharmacy deserts.” These pharmacy deserts are areas where the nearest pharmacy is too far away for older adults to easily access their medications and other health necessities.
The closure of drugstores is a growing problem in many communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas. According to a recent report by the National Community Pharmacists Association, nearly 1,000 independent pharmacies closed in rural areas between 2003 and 2018. This trend is leaving many older adults without convenient access to their medications, leading to potential health risks and challenges in managing chronic conditions.
For older adults, access to a nearby pharmacy is crucial for managing their health. Many older adults rely on multiple medications to treat various conditions, and having a pharmacy close by makes it easier for them to fill their prescriptions and stay on track with their medication regimens. In addition, older adults often need assistance and guidance from pharmacists in understanding their medications and managing any potential side effects.
The closure of nearby pharmacies can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of older adults. Without easy access to their medications, older adults may be less likely to adhere to their prescribed treatment regimens, leading to worsening health outcomes and potentially avoidable hospitalizations. In addition, older adults may face challenges in obtaining over-the-counter medications, medical supplies, and other health necessities that are typically available at pharmacies.
To address the issue of pharmacy deserts and ensure that older adults have access to the medications and care they need, policymakers and community leaders must take action. This may include implementing policies to support independent pharmacies, expanding access to telepharmacy services, and investing in programs that provide transportation assistance for older adults to access pharmacies.
In addition, it is important for older adults and their families to be proactive in addressing the issue of pharmacy deserts. This may include advocating for the retention of local pharmacies, exploring alternative options for obtaining medications such as mail-order pharmacies or prescription delivery services, and seeking assistance from healthcare providers in finding solutions to access medications.
In conclusion, the closure of drugstores is creating pharmacy deserts that are leaving older adults without convenient access to their medications and other health necessities. Addressing this issue is crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of older adults and preventing potential health risks. By working together, we can ensure that older adults have access to the care and support they need to manage their health effectively.
