Improving Treatment Adherence in Older Adults with Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Policy Brief

Document Type : Policy Brief

Authors

1 Cardiovascular Research Center, Health Institute, Imam-Ali hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran

2 Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran

Abstract

The rapidly aging population is a key driver of the ACS epidemic, and as the number of older adult’s increases, the burden of ACS is expected to rise accordingly. Adherence to medical advice is crucial for heart patients to prevent re-hospitalization and avoidable complications. With this in mind, this policy brief aims to inform health service planners in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) who are developing national policies and strategies for cardiovascular disease care in older adults. In this study, we conducted a qualitative content analysis to explore the experiences of barriers to treatment adherence among older adults (n = 38) in Kermanshah, Iran in 2023.We employed a purposive sampling method to select participants. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews and semi-structured methods until data saturation was achieved. For data analysis, we employed the 6-step content analysis method developed by Graneheim and Lundman.  Based on the assigned codes, the present study identified three main issues that hinder adherence to treatment: 1) Poor performance of the treatment team, 2) Financial limitations, and 3) Disappointment and social rejection. These findings suggest that addressing these barriers is crucial for improving treatment adherence.

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Main Subjects

Aging Psychology
Volume 9, Issue 4
January 2024
Pages 455-458

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History

  • Receive Date: 28 June 2023
  • Revise Date: 16 December 2023
  • Accept Date: 12 December 2023

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