Concept analysis of adherence

Abstract

Abstract Objective To explore the concept of adherence in the context of rehabilitation of patients with chronic illnesses. This concept analysis is helpful in predicting health behaviors and intentions including physical activity and dietary behaviors in patients with chronic illnesses. Methods The framework of Walker and Avant was used to analyze the concept of adherence. Results Adherence is defined as the extent to which a person’s behavior, such as taking medication, following a diet, and/or executing lifestyle changes, corresponds to agreed recommendations from a health-care provider. The antecedents of adherence are the biomedical status of the individual, social support, self-efficacy, and education. Self-report questionnaires and patient self-reporting are the most common measurement tools of adherence. Thus, the reliable and valid instrument of monitoring adherence in the clinical settings is challenging. Conclusions Analyzing the concept of adherence is necessary to help understand how best to promote adherence to improve health-related outcomes.