Medication adherence: understanding the challenges among the elderly

Jaffer, Usman and Che Mohd Nassir, Che Mohd Nasril and Ahmed, Mohamed Ayaaz and Ahmad H Osman, Rahmah and Adam, Abdul Muhaimin and Mohd Khair, Faqyhah and Muzafar, Muhammad Mujahid Danial and Rosman, Nur Anis Zahra and Abdu Aziz, Nur Musfirah (2023) Medication adherence: understanding the challenges among the elderly. International Journal of Education, Psychology and Counseling, 8 (52). pp. 865-874. E-ISSN 0128-164X

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Abstract

This study explores medication adherence challenges in the elderly population, focusing on the complexities and dynamics of managing polypharmacy in a geriatric care setting. The research was conducted in One Stop Home Care Centre, Sri Damai, Kuantan, Malaysia, involving 10 participants aged between 45 and 72. It employs a mixed-methods approach, utilizing structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews to assess medication adherence behaviours and the influencing factors. The findings indicate a significant discrepancy between self-reported medication adherence and actual practices. While 50% of participants reported managing a single medication, observational data revealed a more intricate medication regimen, with some managing up to four different medications. The study highlights the critical role of social support systems in promoting medication adherence, with all participants adhering to their prescribed schedules due to robust caregiver involvement. However, 30% reported occasional lapses due to the complexity of their medication regimens. Notably, side effects like headaches and sleepiness were identified as key factors affecting medication adherence, underscoring the need for tailored approaches to manage side effects. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique characteristics and challenges of medication adherence in the elderly, especially in the context of polypharmacy. The research also points out the socio-economic impact of an aging population and the growing demand for age-appropriate healthcare services. It emphasises the need for strategic health policy and planning to cater to the unique needs of the elderly. The findings advocate for comprehensive patient education, shared responsibility between residents and caregivers, and the implementation of systems to monitor medication intake and side effects. The study therefore provides valuable insights into medication adherence among the elderly, highlighting the necessity for personalised interventions and strategies to enhance health outcomes in this demographic. The research also acknowledges limitations, including a one-time visit for data collection and the lack of long-term follow-up, suggesting areas for future research.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Medication Adherence in Elderly Polypharmacy Challenges Geriatric Care in Malaysia Healthcare Management for Seniors
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC) Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Arabic Language and Literature Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Psychology Kulliyyah of Pharmacy Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences
Depositing User:	Dr Usman Jaffer
Date Deposited:	06 Feb 2024 21:10
Last Modified:	06 Feb 2024 21:11
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/109984

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