A Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Survey on Medication Safety in Korean Older Adults: An Analysis of an Ageing Society

Abstract

Background: Older adults have certain limitations in acquiring and understanding information regarding medication safety. This study surveyed their medication habits and analysed the importance of relevant education to improve knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP). Methods: Our survey included adults aged 65 years or older. We developed a questionnaire on medication safety based on the KAP model. To identify the interrelationships among KAP, we calculated the correlation coefficients using Pearson’s correlation analysis. A t-test was performed to verify the differences in KAP associated with the respondents’ medication safety education experience. Results: We found that 79.4% of respondents self-administered their medications. Of the respondents, 28.2% had received medication safety education. Overall, the respondents had typical levels of knowledge, attitude responses, and behavioural practices associated with medication safety. The results showed significant differences between knowledge and practice; those who were educated on medication safety performed higher levels of safe practice than those who were not (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The KAP survey confirmed that knowledge about the safe use of medication positively affected older adults’ attitudes and practices. To improve their medication usage habits, older adults should receive well-organised medication safety education.