Perspectives of older people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus towards medication adherence: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background Better medication adherence among people with diabetes mellitus was found to be associated with improved glycaemic control. However, medication non-adherence is a significant concern in older people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus. Purpose To explore the perspectives of older people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus towards medication adherence. Design A qualitative descriptive exploratory study. Methodology A purposive sample of older people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus living in the community was recruited. Snowball sampling was applied in community recruitment. In‐depth telephone interviews were conducted using a semi‐structured interview guide. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used in data analysis. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines were followed. Results The emerged six themes were: (a) impact of knowledge, attitudes and practices on medication adherence, (b) treatment-related barriers to medication adherence, (c) impact of age-related changes on medication adherence, (d) person-related barriers to medication adherence, (e) impact of COVID-19 on medication adherence and, (f) role of support systems in medication adherence. Knowledge of the disease process and medications, attitudes towards medication adherence, the practice of different treatment approaches, self-medication and dosing, negative experiences related to medications, polypharmacy, changes in lifestyle and roles, the influence of work-life, motivation, negligence, family support, support received from health workers, facilities available and financial capability are the main factors influence medication adherence. Age-related memory impairment, visual disturbances and physical weaknesses affect medication adherence in older people. Additionally, COVID-19-related guidelines imposed by the government and healthcare system-related issues during the COVID-19 pandemic also affected medication adherence. Conclusion Adherence to medications among older people is hampered by a variety of factors, including their knowledge, attitudes and practices, person and treatment-related factors and age-related changes. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought additional challenges. Individualised patient care for older people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus to improve medication adherence is timely. Strengthening support mechanisms for the above population is essential.