The Analysis of the Effects of Executive Functions, Working Memory and Other Factors on Medication Adherence in Elderly Men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Overactive Bladder Symptoms

Abstract

Aim: Evaluation of the executive function and working memory influence, as well as the general state of memory, on adherence to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and overactive bladder symptoms treatment in elderly men. Background: The influence of the executive function and working memory on treatment adherence in older men with BPH has not been studied enough. Objective: To determine the level of influence of various factors on the treatment adherence in older men with BPH. Method: The executive function and working memory evaluation, as well as a general memory assessment, were carried out using the Wisconsin Test, the Wechsler Memory Scale, and the California Verbal Test. Hierarchical and simultaneous regressions were calculated to study the effect of executive function and working memory. Result: After the end of the study, the symptoms of hyperactive bladder significantly decreased, the symptoms of evacuation did not change significantly, and the cognitive status of the patients remained unchanged. The predictor variables significantly influencing adherence of elderly men to BPH and overactive bladder (OAB) treatment are executive function and working memory composite (β = .33, p & lt; .05), severe symptoms of lower urinary tract (-.34, p & lt; .05), and age (-.27, p & lt; .05). Conclusion: The status of executive function and working memory, as well as the age and severity of the pathological symptoms of the lower urinary tract, should be taken into account when predicting the risks of rejecting BPH and OAB treatment in elderly patients.