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Intentional prescription nonadherence (noncompliance) by the elderly
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|May 1, 1982
Summary
Many elderly patients do not take prescription drugs as directed, with 43% showing nonadherence. Intentional nonadherence, often due to using multiple pharmacies or physicians, was common and not addressed by traditional methods.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pharmacology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Prescription drug nonadherence is a significant issue in elderly populations.
- Understanding the extent and reasons for nonadherence is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of prescription drug nonadherence in elderly individuals.
- To identify the primary reasons behind nonadherence in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- An in-home survey was conducted with 111 elderly subjects using prescription medications.
- Drug-taking behavior was systematically compared against prescribed directions.
- Psychosocial variables and patient demographics were analyzed in relation to adherence patterns.
Main Results:
- 43% of elderly subjects exhibited nonadherence with at least one prescription drug.
- Underuse constituted the majority (90%) of observed nonadherence.
- A substantial 73% of nonadherence instances were intentional.
- No significant differences in adherence were found based on psychosocial factors or hypertension status.
- Intentional nonadherence was more prevalent in individuals utilizing multiple pharmacies and physicians.
Conclusions:
- Elderly prescription drug nonadherence is common, with underuse being the predominant form.
- Intentional nonadherence is a significant factor, often linked to complex healthcare utilization (multiple pharmacies/physicians).
- Standard interventions focusing on forgetfulness are unlikely to be effective for intentional nonadherence in the elderly.