Edith, one of your older customers aged 84, comes to the pharmacy for her repeat prescription of aspirin and three blood pressure lowering medications. On checking Edith's PMR, you see that she missed her last prescription refill, which suggests that she may not be complying with her medication. Today, Edith, who is usually cheerful, seems a little 'vacant' and miserable. Her son, who lived close by, has moved away for work. Discuss with your team:

• What do you think are Edith's main health risks?
• What questions could you ask her?
• What are the potential problems?
• How could you help her? For example, how could you remind her about prescription repeats? How could you encourage compliance with her medication?
• Could you discuss your concerns about Edith with anyone else or other healthcare professionals?
• What help is available in your area from individuals, charities, churches or the local council for older people who may be lonely, forgetful, at risk of not being able to complete daily living tasks or unable to get out?
• How would you communicate with an older woman who could be quite stubborn or failing to recognise she has any problems? Consider how you could befriend Edith.