Shingles is a common condition, affecting about 1 in 3 U.S. adults. It typically presents as a painful, itchy, and tingling rash and can lead to serious complications, including vision loss and long-term nerve pain in the area where the rash occurs. The good news is that an effective vaccine is available. Shingrix is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications. It is recommended as a two-dose series, 2–6 months apart, for adults aged 50 and older. Patients

March is National Kidney Month, a great reminder for pharmacists to check in with older adults about their kidney health. People aged 60 and above, especially those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease, are at higher risk. When kidneys are compromised, it affects more than just filtration. Chronic kidney disease can raise the risk of heart problems, weaken bones, and even lead to kidney failure. Pharmacists can play a big role here by havi

Diabetes Self‑Management Education and Support (DSMES) is an evidence‑based program that gives people with diabetes the tools they need to manage their condition day to day. It connects patients with certified diabetes care and education specialists who teach practical skills and help them build a personalized care plan. DSMES can make a real difference. It helps improve blood sugar, lowers the chance of hospital visits, reduces complications, and even cuts overall diabetes‑r

Pharmacists play an important role in protecting both patients and the healthcare system from Medicare fraud. Stay alert for unusual billing patterns, suspicious prescriptions, or requests for medications or services that seem fraudulent or medically unnecessary. If something doesn’t seem right, take a moment to verify the information and follow your pharmacy’s reporting procedures. You can also report suspected fraud by calling 1-800-MEDICARE. Remaining vigilant is important

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer, which affects the colon and rectum, is currently the leading cause of cancer-related death among Americans under age 50. It is estimated that about one in five cases occurs in individuals younger than 55. Screening plays a critical role in prevention and early detection. When performed early enough, colonoscopy can detect cancer and remove precancerous polyps before they become malignant. Screening has contributed

Medication adherence plays a huge role in health outcomes for older adults, yet many struggle with complex regimens, memory changes, side effects, or simply managing multiple prescriptions. Pharmacists are in a great position to help because we see older adults often and can spot challenges early. A few simple strategies can make a real difference. Using clear, plain‑language counseling helps patients understand what each medication does and how to take it. For example, “Take

Last week, the federal government launched TrumpRx.gov , a new platform offering cash‑pay discounts on select brand‑name medications from participating manufacturers— Pfizer, AstraZeneca, EMD Serono, Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. The site currently lists discounted prices for 40 drugs (e.g. Ozempic, Ovidrel, Insulin Lispro etc) and allows patients to generate coupons they can use at the pharmacy. To access some discounts, patients must confirm that they are paying cash and are

The federally funded Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP), administered by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries’ Farmers Market Authority, has opened applications for the 2026 season. Eligible low‑income seniors over 60 can apply for a $50 benefit card. If approved, participants may use the card to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs from certified farmers and farm stands across Alabama. Benefits can be used from May 1 through Novemb

Insomnia is common in older adults, and many of the seniors you counsel may not realize how much it affects their health. A quick wake‑up during the night such as getting up to use the bathroom is normal. Most people fall back asleep within a few minutes. But when it regularly takes longer than normal to fall asleep or return to sleep, it becomes a problem that can lead to bigger issues like daytime fatigue, poor concentration, increased fall risk, and reduced quality of life

The QMB group provides Medicare coverage of Part A and Part B premiums and cost sharing to low-income Medicare beneficiaries (QMBs). In 2023, more than 8 million individuals (more than 1 out of 8 Medicare beneficiaries) were in the QMB group. It is important to note that Federal law prohibits Medicare providers and suppliers, including pharmacies, from billing individuals in the QMB group for Medicare cost sharing . Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in the QMB group have no leg