4 Steps to Successful Opioid Stewardship in Senior Living Communities

Angie Szumlinski
|
January 2, 2025
Text with the word opioids highlighted

Supporting residents in managing pain while reducing opioid risks is a delicate balance, but it’s one we can all strive for. PharMerica’s resource, “Successful Opioid Stewardship: 4 Steps to Achieve It,” offers practical advice to help senior living communities provide compassionate, resident-centered care. 

The first step to successful opioid stewardship is assessing and monitoring pain effectively. By truly understanding what each resident is experiencing, staff can create care plans that meet their needs without over-relying on opioids. Regular check-ins and adjustments ensure that care remains both personalized and effective. 

Next, education is key. Whether it’s staff, residents, or families, helping everyone understand the risks and benefits of opioid use builds confidence in the care process. Tools like HealthCap’s guide on opioid stewardship and education can help your team provide the information needed to support informed, collaborative decisions. Empowered with knowledge, your team can make decisions that prioritize residents’ well-being. 

The guide also stresses the importance of exploring alternatives. Physical therapy, non-opioid medications, or even relaxation techniques can offer relief while avoiding the complications opioids sometimes bring. Finally, regular evaluation is critical—opioid use isn’t a “set it and forget it” solution. Monitoring and adapting care ensure residents’ changing needs are always met. 

Stay well and stay informed! 


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