Effect of Health Literacy Intervention on Medication Adherence among Older Adults with Chronic Diseases

Abstract

Background: Medication adherence is essential for controlling chronic conditions, treating temporary
conditions, and overall health and well-being. Aim: Examine the effect of health literacy intervention on
medication adherence among older adults with chronic diseases. Design: A quasi-experimental (study and
control design). Settings: Family health unit in Dragel village, Menoufia Governorate, Egypt. Sample:
a purposive sample of 140 older adults. Tools:1) Interviewing questionnaire that includes; the sociodemographic
data, medical history, medication knowledge, factor affecting medication adherence and
physiological measurement 2) The Medication Adherence Scale. 3) Self-Efficacy for appropriate medication
use scale. Results: There was remarkable improved medication adherence and self-efficacy in medication use
in the study group compared to pre-intervention and the control group. Also, there was improved knowledge
and practice regarding medication use. Also, there was significant control in random blood glucose level
and blood pressure in the study group compared to pre-intervention and the control group. Conclusion: The
health literacy intervention was effective in enhancing medication adherence, successful in improving selfefficacy
in medication use, and significantly controlling random blood glucose and blood pressure among
older adults. Recommendation: Health care providers especially nurses should provide regular follow up
for older adults with chronic diseases regarding medication adherence.