Medication List for an Elderly Parent: Free Template and Tips
An up-to-date medication list is one of the most useful things a caregiver can carry. Doctors, ER staff and pharmacists ask for it constantly, and older adults often take several prescriptions from different prescribers, plus over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
What to include for each medication
| Column | Example |
|---|---|
| Name (brand and generic) | Lisinopril (Zestril) |
| Strength / dose | 10 mg, 1 tablet |
| When | Morning |
| What it's for | Blood pressure |
| Prescriber | Dr. Lee |
| Start date | 03/2026 |
| Notes | Take with water; check BP weekly |
Also list at the top: allergies and reactions, pharmacy name and number, and the date the list was last updated.
Don't forget
- Over-the-counter medicines (pain relievers, antacids, sleep aids)
- Vitamins and supplements
- Eye drops, inhalers, patches, creams and injections
- Medications taken "as needed"
- Medications recently stopped, and why
How to keep it accurate
- Do a "brown bag" review. Put every bottle in a bag and bring it to the doctor or pharmacist once a year, or after a hospital stay. They can spot duplicates and interactions.
- Update it after every appointment and every hospital discharge.
- Use one pharmacy where possible, so interactions are checked in one system.
- Ask "Is this still needed?" at each visit.
Where to keep it
- In the front of the caregiver binder
- A copy in your parent's wallet or purse
- A photo on your phone
- On the fridge, for paramedics
A daily log helps too
If you or a helper give medications, a simple daily checklist (morning, noon, evening, bedtime) prevents double doses.
Not medical advice. Always confirm medication changes with a doctor or pharmacist.
The Family Caregiver Binder includes a medication list, a daily medication log and a spreadsheet version that's easy to update and reprint.
Family Caregiver Binder — $14
19-page caregiver binder: medical summary, medication list and log, appointment log, discharge checklist, legal documents and a care tracker spreadsheet. Instant download: PDF + DOCX + XLSX.
Get the Family Caregiver BinderFamily Paperwork Bundle — $34More guides
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