Predicting the Intention to Adhere to Hypertensive Medication among Seniors: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Nonadherence to hypertension medication is a widespread problem, especially among senior citizens. Several approaches are needed to improve adherence and include identifying and prioritizing problems related to adherence. A formative study employing theory of planned behavior (TPB) has revealed some salient beliefs underlying the intention to adhere to hypertension medication among seniors. The correlation of these beliefs with adherence needs to be further investigated to identify which belief to be prioritized in a medication adherence strategy. This study aims to identify which belief had the strongest correlation with the intention to adhere to hypertension medication among seniors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among seniors with hypertension in Yogyakarta. A questionnaire based on TPB was developed and used in this study. The questionnaire was distributed conveniently to three senior communities (offline) and through a Google Form link to five WhatsApp groups (online) in September-December 2023. Data were analyzed by using multiple linear regression analyses. A total of 49 and 48 seniors completed the offline and online questionnaires, respectively. The mean age of the participants was 66.9 +/- 4.4 years. Subjective norms and perceived behavioral control, but not attitude, accounted significantly (p < 0.01) for 57.6% of the variance in adherence intention. Among beliefs, perceived behavioral control had the strongest correlation with intention, and frequent awareness of blood pressure level had the highest correlation with perceived behavioral control. Understanding which belief has the highest correlation with the intent to adhere to hypertension medication provides insight for developing strategies for improving adherence among seniors.