Using computers to reduce medication misuse of community-based seniors: results of a pilot intervention program

Persons over the age of 65 are at high risk for conditions related to medication misuse. Addressing this issue is important to prevent serious outcomes such as falls, drug interactions, rehospitalization, and addiction. The role of community-based organizations, such as senior centers, in preventing medication misuse can be enhanced by the use of standardized interventions. This article reports a pilot project implementing laptop computer interventions for medication misuse by seniors. The study was conducted in Cleveland, Ohio, with 412 seniors participating in Area Agency on Aging programs. Seniors completed a computerized simple screening for medication misuse and watched short video clips related to their own potential misuse. Seniors also received a medication reminder checklist and a 7-day pill-dispensing box. Results of a 2-month follow-up interview revealed promising results, with 55% of participants using the medication reminder checklist. One-third of participants visited their doctor to discuss the medication misuse feedback. Almost all of the participants found the computerized administration of the intervention to be easy and helpful. The study supports the further development of community-based interventions for seniors using computerized administration.