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Medication adherence: is it a hidden drug-related problem in hidden elderly?
Vivian W Y Lee1, Kathy K W Pang, Ka Chun Hui
1School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
Geriatrics & Gerontology International
|March 5, 2013
Summary
This study on hidden elderly in Hong Kong found high rates of chronic disease and medication issues. Pharmacist and nursing interventions significantly improved medication adherence and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Geriatric Pharmacy
- Public Health
Background:
- Hidden elderly in Hong Kong face significant health challenges.
- Social isolation and lack of support networks exacerbate health needs in this population.
- Polypharmacy and chronic diseases are prevalent among the hidden elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the health needs of hidden elderly in Hong Kong.
- To evaluate the impact of pharmacist and nursing interventions on medication management.
- To assess improvements in well-being and quality of life for this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Recruitment of elderly (≥65 years) lacking social/family support.
- Assessment of health needs via interviews and observations.
- Evaluation of medication adherence (Morisky Scale) and quality of life (EuroQoL 5-D).
Main Results:
- 86 participants completed the study, with a mean age of 81.46 years.
- High prevalence of drug non-adherence (61.63%) and storage problems (69.77%).
- Significant improvements observed in medication adherence (Morisky score decrease) and quality of life (EuroQoL score increase).
Conclusions:
- Hidden elderly often have multiple chronic diseases and significant drug-related problems.
- Pharmacist and nursing interventions effectively addressed drug-related issues and enhanced medication compliance.
- Interventions positively impacted the overall quality of life for the hidden elderly population.
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