Abstract
Purpose The purpose of the study was to explore methods and routines used by older adults to remember to take medications.
Methods
The study was conducted using face-to-face interviews with a convenient sample of older people, who take at least one medication for the treatment of a chronic condition. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the collected data.
Results
Participants (10 men and 28 women, mean age: 79.5) described the methods that aid them in remembering to take their medications. The study identified three content categories: incorporation of medication habits into daily schedule and routine, use of medication aids; and assistance and support from family.
Conclusion
Older people have less difficulty taking their medication regularly if it becomes another habit as part of a daily routine. Health-care professionals should promote various methods to support medication management.
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Dworakowska, A.M., Aniszewska, A. & Kozłowska-Wojciechowska, M. Older adults’ strategies to prevent episodic medication non-adherence: results from a qualitative study. Eur Geriatr Med 10, 327–330 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41999-018-00156-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s41999-018-00156-y