Medication regimens and the home care client: a challenge for health care providers

This paper synthesizes literature related to medication-taking behaviors of the elderly population and examines factors related to medication compliance problems. A review and critique of the literature focused on interventions and strategies for improving medication compliance is also presented. This analysis provides direction for developing assessment guides, intervention strategies, and educational materials which may be helpful for health providers in assisting patients and families to manage medication regimens. The paper also includes a comprehensive medication assessment guide and a resource list of educational materials for family care-givers and health providers. The last section of the paper describes the clinical testing study of the medication assessment guide.