The negative association of independent personality and medication adherence.
OBJECTIVE
This investigation examines the association of personality factors and medication adherence among older adults.


METHODS
The Six-Factor Personality Questionnaire was mailed to participants involved in a medication adherence investigation. Medication adherence was monitored with an electronic monitoring cap for 8 weeks for one prescribed daily medication.


RESULTS
Sixty older adults, mean age 77 years (range 67 to 93 years), returned the questionnaire (69% response rate). Stepwise regression analysis demonstrates that when age and level of education are controlled, independence predicts medication adherence. This factor demonstrates a negative relationship with adherence suggesting that higher levels of independence may be related to lower adherence to prescribed medication. The facet component self-reliance is predictive of poor medication adherence.


CONCLUSIONS
The finding that higher self-reliance is associated with lower adherence in an older population deserves further investigation and clinical consideration.
Insel
Kathleen C
KC
University of Arizona, College of Nursing, P.O. Box 210203, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA. insel@nursing.arizona.edu.
Reminger
Sheryl L
SL
Hsiao
Chao-Pin
CP
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D006801:Humans; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology*; D026684:Personal Autonomy; D010551:Personality