Multimorbidity: Tips on Managing Multiple Health Conditions

Your parents may need help managing multiple treatments and medications, and it can be overwhelming for a Carent. The following tips may help: 

• Organisation: Use medication organisers and set up reminders for taking medications.
• Clear Communication: Maintain open communication with doctors, pharmacists, nurses and other experts to understand the purpose and side effects of each medication.
• Record-Keeping: Make sure your parent keeps an updated list of all their problems, medications and treatments, including dosages, schedules and any known allergies or side effects, which can be shared with all concerned. 
• Regular Reviews: Schedule regular medication reviews with your loved one’s GP or pharmacist to ensure all medications are still necessary and effective and to avoid polypharmacy.

Fragmented care is when different healthcare providers do not collaborate effectively and is a legitimate concern in managing multimorbidity. It can lead to miscommunication and inconsistent treatment plans. It’s important to ensure there is a coordinated approach to care. You can help with this  – if your parent wants  – by:

• Arranging a Special GP Appointment: Use the GP appointment to address how different aspects of care can be better coordinated.
• Promoting effective Communication: Make sure your parent has an up-to-date list of regular medicines and treatments which can be shared amongst the various healthcare providers. 
• Providing Advocacy: Be an advocate for your parent’s healthcare needs, ensuring their treatment plan is tailored to their priorities and preferences.
• Monitoring Progress: Regularly assess how well the care plan is being implemented and whether it’s meeting your parent’s needs effectively.

Balancing personal life while caring for a parent with multiple health conditions is important. It is vital that you look after your own mental and physical health while supporting your parents. Some strategies include:

• Setting Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to balance your availability and carenting responsibilities.
• Seeking Support: Use support networks, including other family members, friends, or support groups.
• Respite Care: Consider arranging respite care to give yourself a break.
• Self-care: Prioritise your own health and wellbeing, recognising that taking care of yourself is essential to being an effective Carent.
• Time Management: Organise your schedule to create a balance between carenting, work, and personal time.

Comorbidity refers to additional conditions existing alongside a primary disease, with the primary condition being the main focus. Multimorbidity describes multiple chronic conditions with no single disease considered primary, requiring a holistic approach to manage all conditions equally.  People living with multimorbidity can also experience co-morbidities.

Caregivers can offer vital support by understanding more about each condition and facilitating open communication with doctors and other health professionals  for coordinated care. Assisting in medication management, organising appointments, and supporting healthy lifestyle advice like diet and exercise can be valuable when caring for a loved one with multiple health conditions. 

Multimorbidity can significantly impact mental health due to the stress and challenges of managing multiple health conditions simultaneously. You or your loved one may experience increased feelings of anxiety, depression, or stress, often stemming from concerns about their health, treatment complexities, and the potential limitations these conditions place on their lifestyle. Additionally, the physical discomfort or pain associated with some conditions can further exacerbate mental health struggles. It’s important to discuss this with your doctor.