Title
Older women's views about prescription osteoporosis medication: a cross-sectional, qualitative study
UMMS Affiliation
Meyers Primary Care Institute
Publication Date
2010-12-01
Document Type
Article
Subjects
Age Factors; Aged; Bone Density; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; *Interviews as Topic; Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal; Patient Preference; Prescription Drugs; Sex Factors; Women
Disciplines
Health Services Research | Primary Care
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis is a significant health problem, especially for older women. Prescription osteoporosis medication can reduce fractures, but many women do not accept treatment or discontinue treatment before benefits are achieved.
OBJECTIVES: To explore older women's views about prescription osteoporosis medication use in depth and to identify specific beliefs and experiences that influence these views.
METHODS: We conducted in-depth telephone interviews with women aged >/=65 years with clinically confirmed osteoporosis. Interviewees were asked about their beliefs and experiences related to osteoporosis and osteoporosis treatment. Interviews were recorded and transcribed; key themes were identified using qualitative analysis.
RESULTS: Perceived need, medication effectiveness and medication safety were identified as critical influences on women's views about prescription osteoporosis medication. These perceptions were in turn influenced by various beliefs, experiences and behaviours, including interactions with the physician, personal experience and behaviours, and vicarious experience.
CONCLUSIONS: Older women with osteoporosis need clear information about their condition, including the diagnosis, the implications of the diagnosis, treatment options, medication effectiveness and side effects. Physicians should check with their patients to confirm understanding and address concerns, as older women may not always voice their reservations and concerns.
DOI of Published Version
10.2165/11584790-000000000-00000
Source
Drugs Aging. 2010 Dec 1;27(12):999-1008. doi: 10.2165/11584790-000000000-00000. Link to article on publisher's site
Journal/Book/Conference Title
Drugs and aging
Related Resources
PubMed ID
21087069
Repository Citation
Mazor, Kathleen M.; Velten, Sarah J.; Andrade, Susan E.; and Yood, Robert A., "Older women's views about prescription osteoporosis medication: a cross-sectional, qualitative study" (2010). Meyers Primary Care Institute Publications and Presentations. 467.
https://escholarship.umassmed.edu/meyers_pp/467
