Medication Adherence and Associated Factors Among Geriatric Population with Chronic Diseases in Rural Northern Kerala: A Cross-sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51957/Healthline_838_2026Keywords:
Chronic Diseases, Compliance, Elderly Population, Geriatric Population, Geriatrics, Medication Adherence, Treatment Adherence and Compliance, TreatmentAbstract
Introduction: Medication adherence among elderly patients with chronic diseases is crucial for effective disease control but often remains inadequate. Limited Indian data and under-assessment justified studying its determinants and impact.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess medication adherence and associated factors among the geriatric population using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8).
Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 292 individuals aged ≥60 years with chronic diseases in a rural field practice area of a tertiary care centre in Northern Kerala, in 2025. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire, and adherence was assessed using the MMAS-8 scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, and chi-square test was applied to identify associated factors.
Results: Medication adherence among geriatrics showed that 62.3% had low adherence and 37.7% had high adherence. Higher adherence was significantly associated with younger elderly age, female gender, higher education, higher socio-economic status, and living with family, as well as shorter duration of illness and having a single chronic condition. Additionally, factors such as motivation to take medications, regular follow-up, absence of cost-related barriers, shorter waiting times, receipt of counseling, medication availability, and satisfaction with healthcare services were significantly associated with better adherence (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Medication adherence among the geriatric population with chronic diseases was suboptimal and influenced by multiple socio-demographic, clinical, behavioral, and healthcare system factors. Improving adherence requires comprehensive, patient-centered strategies focusing on education, accessibility, and strengthening healthcare support systems.
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