Which over-the-counter (OTC) medications are commonly found in assisted living?

In assisted living settings, it is common to find over-the-counter (OTC) medications that are effective for managing common health issues experienced by residents. Pain relievers, antihistamines, and gastrointestinal medications are frequently available for various reasons.

Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are commonly used to alleviate mild to moderate pain, which is especially important for seniors who may have chronic pain conditions or are recovering from surgeries. Antihistamines serve as effective treatments for allergies, addressing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. These medications can significantly enhance residents' comfort and quality of life.

Gastrointestinal medications are also crucial, as many individuals in assisted living may experience digestive issues, including constipation or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Having access to OTC options for these problems allows for prompt relief without the need for a more complex intervention.

The other choices do not reflect the prevalent OTC medications found in assisted living. Vitamins and herbal supplements, while popular, are considered more complementary than essential medications. Antibiotics are strictly prescription medications and not available OTC. The mention of prescription medications only overlooks the wide array of OTC medications that play an important role in daily care in such facilities.