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Complementary and alternative medicine use by older Australians.
Anthony L Zhang1, Charlie C L Xue, Vivian Lin
1Division of Chinese Medicine, School of Health Sciences, RMIT University, P.O. Box 71, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia. tony.zhang@rmit.edu.au
Over half of older Australians use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Elderly CAM users are more likely to discuss usage with doctors, though doctors should initiate these conversations more often.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Integrative Medicine
Background:
- Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is increasing in Australia.
- Little is known about CAM utilization among the elderly population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of CAM use in older Australians.
- To compare CAM use in the elderly with younger adult populations.
Main Methods:
- A national survey of adult Australians was conducted in May-June 2005.
- Computer-assisted telephone interviews were used, with 178 participants aged 65+.
Main Results:
- 57.8% of elderly participants used at least one form of CAM in the past 12 months.
- Clinical nutrition, chiropractic, massage, meditation, and herbal medicine were most common.
- Elderly CAM users were more likely to discuss use with doctors than younger adults.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of older Australians utilize CAM.
- Healthcare providers should proactively discuss CAM use with elderly patients.
- Encouraging open communication can improve integrated care for older adults.
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