Experiences of Older People Living at Home With Medication Use: A Qualitative Study From Lithuania

TL;DR

This study explores the medication experiences of older people in Lithuania, highlighting challenges like memory issues and lack of knowledge.

Contribution

The study offers new qualitative insights into medication use challenges among older adults in a Lithuanian context.

Findings

Common issues include memory impairment and insufficient medication knowledge.

Participants rely on habits and organization to manage medications.

Healthcare system barriers affect safe medication use among older people.

Abstract

Background

Older people face difficulties in managing various diseases that require the use of multiple medications. The most common challenges arise from adherence to medication regimens, polypharmacy, and insufficient knowledge about medications. To ensure safe medication use, assessing the problems associated with medication use in older people and the factors that contribute to them is necessary.

Methodology

The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist was used. A total of 10 older people participated in the study. The search for study participants was conducted using the snowball method. The data collection method chosen was a semi-structured interview, which was conducted according to a pre-determined plan. Content data analysis was applied.

Results

The total duration of all interviews analyzed was 3.21 hours (201 minutes). Eight women and two men participated in the study. The following four main themes were identified from the interviews: (a) the medications used by respondents and their side effects; (b) adherence to medication regimens; (c) respondents’ attitudes toward sharing personal medications with others; and (d) sources of information about medication use sought by study participants.

Conclusions

The study provides information that helps better understand older people’s experiences, challenges, and problems when taking medication. The most common issues related to medication use are memory impairment, lack of knowledge, and barriers in the healthcare system. Medication use is ensured by established habits, organization, and adherence to rules. The study provides insights into how to improve healthcare for older people.