The provided text contains author guidelines and editorial policies for the Turkiye Klinikleri Journal of Health Sciences rather than the actual clinical study data.
Does psychological well-being affect medication adherence in older adults with chronic illnesses?
Mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety are associated with poorer medication adherence in older adults with chronic illnesses.
Objective: As the elderly population increases globally, it is also steadily rising in Türkiye. Aging is an inevitable process encompassing biological, physiological, and psychological dimensions. Physiological declines that occur with advancing age during this process directly impact the quality of life of older adults and contribute to an increased prevalence of chronic diseases. This study aimed to examine the effects of psychological conditions on medication use among elderly individuals with chronic diseases. Material and Methods: A descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 447 elderly individuals at 2 family health centers in Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye. Data were collected using the descriptive characteristics form, Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire, and Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Statistical analyses included independent samples t-test, analysis of variance, and Pearson correlation. Results: Of participants, 47.4% had hypertension, 41.4% had diabetes, and 38.3% reported feeling unhappy. Although 88.4% reported regular medication use, 20.8% forgot or confused their medications due to polypharmacy. BSI scores were significantly higher in those with irregular medication use (79.67±43.89), medication confusion (70.47±36.45), and unwillingness to take medication (81.53±36.85) (p<0.05). Mental health symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and hopelessness were associated with medication behavior. Conclusion: This study highlights the hidden psychological burden affecting medication adherence in older adults with chronic illnesses. Negative emotions and concerns about side effects reduce adherence, while strong beliefs in medication necessity improve it. Integrating mental health into geriatric care is essential for holistic medication management. Addressing psychological well-being can enhance adherence and improve chronic disease outcomes.
GEÇDİ et al. (2026) studied Chronic Illness. The provided text contains author guidelines and editorial policies for the Turkiye Klinikleri Journal of Health Sciences rather than the actual clinical study data.