Abstract
Background. Medication adherence is a key determinant of successful treatment outcomes in older adults, especially those with chronic illnesses. However, adherence often declines as treatment regimens become more complex. Polypharmacy, common among aging populations, may contribute to reduced adherence. This study aimed to assess medication adherence among older adults and identify its associated factors, with a special focus on polypharmacy.
Methods. This cross-sectional study included 110 adults aged 60 years and older in Tabriz. Data were collected through structured interviews using a demographic questionnaire and the eight-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). Polypharmacy was defined as the concurrent use of five or more medications. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, Spearman correlation, and multiple linear regression. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.
Results. The level of medication adherence was generally low among participants. Polypharmacy showed a significant moderate negative correlation with medication adherence (r = −0.366, P < 0.001). In the multiple linear regression model, polypharmacy emerged as the only significant predictor of medication adherence (B = -0.287, P = 0.006). Demographic variables, including age, gender, education level, and marital status, were not significantly associated with medication adherence. Conclusion. The level of medication adherence was suboptimal among older adults in this study, and polypharmacy was identified as the primary factor associated with reduced adherence.
Practical Implications. Medication review, reducing unnecessary prescriptions, and simplifying treatment regimens may improve medication adherence among older adults. Healthcare providers should pay particular attention to patients with polypharmacy and support adherence through appropriate medication management and patient education.