Medication Adherence in a Sample of Elderly Suffering from Hypertension: Evaluating the Influence of Illness Perceptions, Treatment Beliefs, and Illness Burden

Abstract

This study provides insights into how perceptions of illness and burden relate to medication adherence in hypertension. More benign perceptions of illness and greater perceived illness burden translate to lower medication adherence. Positive beliefs regarding medications are also crucial for shaping adherence behavior of elderly hypertensive individuals. Threatening views of illness and stronger beliefs of the necessity of medications contribute substantially to positive medication adherence. Interventions and programs aimed at building adherence in elderly hypertension patients need to recognize the value and importance of patient perceptions of illness and medications in shaping adherence behavior.