Korean J Adult Nurs.  2021 Apr;33(2):189-201. 10.7475/kjan.2021.33.2.189.

Factors Associated with Medication Adherence among the Elderly with Chronic Diseases

• Kang SH
• Ko E

• KMID: 2515801
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7475/kjan.2021.33.2.189

Abstract

Purpose
The study sought to investigate the relationships between beliefs about medications, self-efficacy of medication use, social support and medication adherence, and the general factors associated with medication adherence among the elderly living with chronic disease.
Methods
This study took the form of a descriptive survey involving 222 elderly outpatients - aged 65 years or older - who visited S medical center, located in S city. Data were collected through self-report questionnaires from July to August 2019. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, an independent t-test, a one-way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and a hierarchical multiple regression via the SPSS/WIN 25.0 program.
Results
The mean score for medication adherence was 61.80±10.19 (range 16~80). Participants' medication adherence positively correlated with beliefs about medications (r=.17, p=.012), self-efficacy for medication use (r=.31, p<.001) and social support (r=.20, p=.003). Frequency of alcohol consumption (β=-.20, p=.001), burden level of medical costs (β=-.18, p=.012), experience of side-effects (β=-.21, p=.001), medication-taking education (β=.17, p=.008), beliefs about medication (β=.13, p=.038), and self-efficacy for medication use (β=.19, p=.004) explained for 24.9% of medication adherence (F=6.23, p<.001).
Conclusion
It is necessary to consider the beliefs about medication and self-efficacy for medication use when developing educational programs aimed at improving medication adherence among the elderly living with chronic diseases.

Keyword

Chronic disease; Elderly; Self efficacy; Social support; Medication adherence