Medication-taking behavior of the elderly.

The aim of this study was to examine the medication-taking behavior of older adults living in communities. Factors influencing their medication-taking behavior were also explored. Data were collected by way of a face-to-face interview survey through a random sample of 401 persons over 65 years of age, and were analyzed using SPSS computer software. The sample included two groups of people, one residing in an urban community and the other in a rural community. The results revealed information on the following kinds of medication behavior: self-medication, using non-prescription medications, sharing medication, forgetting to take medications, misusing medications, being non-compliant, using multi-medications, hoarding medications, and combining Western medications with traditional therapies. In comparing the differences between the urban and rural elderly, the urban elderly had more accurate medication knowledge and displayed better medication-taking behavior. An elderly person's age, gender, education level, marital status, living status and health belief were found to affect his/her medication knowledge and behavior. Education of both health care professionals and the general public is urgently needed to ensure the safety of taking medication by the elderly.