Self-reported problems in medication self-management in older polymedicated patients in general practice

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Primary Care Research
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Polypharmacy is a common geriatric syndrome in older adults.
• Age-related decline in cognitive and physical capacities complicates medication self-administration.
• Assessing medication management capacity is crucial for preventing errors and harm.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure self-reported medication management capacity in older, polymedicated patients in primary care.
• To explore challenges in adherence, handling, and knowledge related to medication management.
• To utilize a questionnaire developed in the ABLYMED study for this assessment.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory study involving 102 polymedicated patients (≥70 years) from a German general practice.
• Patients were interviewed using a 30-question ABLYMED-derived questionnaire.
• The questionnaire assessed adherence (16 questions), handling (8 questions), and belief/attitude/knowledge (6 questions).

Main Results:

• Up to 40% of older patients reported medication handling problems, particularly with eye drops and package opening.
• 20% reported running out of medication, and 5% reported mixing up medications.
• Most patients (85%) understood the rationale for their medications and had positive perceptions of their benefits.

Conclusions:

• A significant proportion of older primary care patients experience medication handling difficulties.
• Findings align with previous hospital-based studies (ABLYMED sample).
• Interventions are needed to address self-reported medication management challenges in this population.