Prescriber’s view on anticholinergic deprescribing among older adults with intellectual disability: A qualitative study protocol

Abstract

Background: High anticholinergic burden is associated with physical and cognitive functional decline however, these medications are still being prescribed for older adults with intellectual disability. People with intellectual disability exposed to higher anticholinergic burden compared to general population. Additionally, anticholinergic exposure is higher with aging, neurological and psychiatric health conditions, living in nursing homes or community group setting. The long-term exposure to high anticholinergic burden was associated with physical decline, cognitive impairment, higher risk of dementia and Alzheimer disease. Aim and objectives: The study aimed to explore prescriber views and perspective about prescribing and deprescribing of medication with anticholinergic activity among older adults with intellectual disability. the objectives of this study are: To explore prescriber’s knowledge on anticholinergic burden, adverse-effects, tools used to measure anticholinergic burden.To explore barriers and facilitators of anticholinergic deprescribing. Method and analysis:  this is a qualitative semi-structured interviews study which will be conducted by interviewing prescribers involved in prescribing for older adults with intellectual disabilities. The study aimed to recruit 8 – 10 prescribers or until it reaches data saturation. Interviews will be conducted through MS teams or in person if that’s suits the interviewee. This study will be conducted by based on the Theoretical Domain Framework (TDF).