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Remembering to take medication

This video explains the challenges of remembering to take medication—when, what and how—and highlights the importance of planning with healthcare professionals. It suggests using routines, reminders, organization tools and support systems to improve consistency and ensure prescriptions are managed safely and effectively.

Have a look at this video for practical tools to make taking medication easier.

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Medication management can be difficult, but consistent routines, reminders, and support systems can make it manageable. Here are some simple tips to help you take your medication as prescribed:

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MEDICATION MEMORY TIPS: 

Routine is important

  • Link your medication into a routine that you already have. For example, placing your morning medication on your desk can be a helpful reminder when you begin your workday.

Find a consistent place

  • Keep you medication in a consistent place. If needed, label the cupboard or drawer.
  • You can also add a photograph of the medication on the outside so you can locate it easily. 

Keep it visible

  • You can keep your medication in a visible place. However, only do this if it’s safe for other people around you.

Medication list

  • Keep a clear list of the medication you take.
  • It could be a copy of your up-to-date prescription or your own list.

Take a photograph

  • Taking a photograph of all your medication together can work well.

Think about what works for you

  • Use what has helped you before, such as a calendar or diary. 

Use reminders

  • Technology can be a helpful tool for staying on track with your medication.
  • You can set up reminders on your computer, smartphone or smart speakers, such as Amazon Alexa, to prompt you when it’s time to take your medication.

Some medication aids

  • A medication box can be a useful visual reminder. Some options include symbols or clearly labelled days of the week.
  • Link a medication box with a digital memory clock, which confirms which day of the week it is.
  • Some pharmacies can issue a blister pack with medication already organised.
  • Pill dispensers can be linked to telecare systems. Some can also be linked to personal care alarms you might have at home.

Social and external support

  • Ask a friend or contact to call you as a reminder.

Managing Prescriptions

  • Plan ahead for renewals using reminders or calendars.
  • Ask pharmacists about automatic refills and delivery options.  

We encourage you to seek advice from a GP, pharmacist or another healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions. 

Meet our experts

Rosalind Gray

A compassionate and versatile Occupational Therapist and AHP Manager with over 30 years’ experience across the NHS, local authorities, private and charity sectors. I specialise in supporting adults with physical disabilities, dementia, rehabilitation needs, environmental adaptations, and palliative care. I’m committed to putting people at the centre of everything I do, delivering genuinely person-centred services and ensuring accessibility for all. I have a proven track record in interdisciplinary leadership, change management, innovation, creative problem-solving, service design, environmental adaptation, performance management, mentoring, customer service, and delivering outcomes that make a meaningful difference. In my spare time, I’m a passionate nature photographer!

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The resources available are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances.  The resources are for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgment before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. Full terms and conditions.