Evaluation of Polypharmacy in Individuals over 65 Years of Age in Balcova District of Izmir-ShortReport
Abstract
Objectives: The morbidities and long-term multiple medication use among the elderly.
Methods: The study was conducted by the 2nd-grade medical students from Izmir University of Economics under the supervision of instructors. In this descriptive cohort, the study sample included 45 individuals over 65 among the identified 150 residents in Balcova. The response rate was 26.4% for men and 73.3% for women. A questionnaire was defined for a face-to-face interview, which included sociodemographic variables, medical history, lifestyle, systems inquiry, and a detailed list of all medications.
Results: Mean age of the elderly was 78.5 ± 7.2 years. Women, widows, and primary school graduates constituted the majority. Hypertension, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis were the leading morbidities by 71.1, 46.7 and 31.1%, respectively. Stroke, kidney disease, and migraine were the least morbidities by 3%. 66.7% were using five or more than five medications, 93.3% were using medicines prescribed by the doctor, none complained of adverse effects, 4.4% were non-compliant with treatment, and 28.9% were using vitamin supplements and herbal remedies.
Conclusion: Increase in the prevalence of age-related chronic diseases is accompanied by an increase in polypharmacy,
Keywords
Polypharmacy, elderly, community-based health practice
Project Number
yok
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