Evaluation of Older Adults or Their Caregivers’ Attitudes and Preferences Toward Ease of Use and Compliance of Different Dosage Forms

Abstract

Background: This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to evaluate older adults or their caregivers’ attitudes and preferences toward ease of use and compliance of various dosage forms and to improve medication consumption in the elderly population. Methods: This research was conducted in 2021 using a validated questionnaire asking respondents about problems experienced through consuming various dosage forms, preferences regarding dosage forms and frequency, and demographics. The content validity index and content validity ratio were used in the validation evaluation. Results: The incorrect medication in the elderly is mainly the result of forgetfulness. In addition, poor compliance was partly related to difficulty dividing tablets, large-sized drugs, and undesirable taste. Most elders preferred swelling pills and oral routes of administration. They further preferred to take fewer drugs in less-divided doses, just after a meal, at noon, or at bedtime. The child resistance packaging is unsuitable for them, and the blister or container with screw caps is preferred, and they adhere more to a medication when they are younger and more educated without relevance to gender or with whom they live. Conclusion: Our findings revealed that the formulation and administration of drugs according to elder preferences could improve their adherence to the medication.