How to Reduce Medication Errors in Disability Support

Medication errors often occur when information is unclear, routines are inconsistent, or support changes frequently.

Reducing risk involves more than following instructions. It requires:

• Clear understanding of what each medication is for and how it should be taken

• Consistent routines that fit the person’s daily life

• Safe storage and handling

• Knowing what side effects or changes to watch for

• Clear communication between participants, support workers, families, and health professionals

Education and reinforcement play a key role. When people and their support teams understand medications and feel confident using them, errors are less likely to occur.

Building simple, reliable systems and supporting confidence over time helps turn medication use from a source of risk into a part of safe, well-supported daily living.