Taking a multitude of medications after patient discharge a qualitative study of the experiences of older people with multimorbidity

Background: Older people often have multimorbidity requiring a complex regime of medications, which may change following hospital discharge, thus presenting new challenges. The experiences of older people, who manage their own medications, in particular following hospital discharge, have rarely been studied. Aim: This study investigates the experiences of older people with multimorbidity taking multiple medications after hospital discharge and how they cope with medication-taking. Method: A qualitative-descriptive approach with ten interviews was chosen. The data were coded openly into two groups according to Saldaiia (2013). Results: It is important for older people, in spite of their multimorbidity, to maintain their independence and maintain responsibility for taking their medications. Routines are developed from taking medications over many years and the new medications are easily integrated. Unclear information by the medical staff and the inability of the older people to obtain the medications after discharge may lead to mistakes or interruptions in the drug therapy at home. The key person for this group is the general practitioner, even concerning the drug therapy initiated in hospital. Conclusion: It is advisable to adapt discharge education to the needs of older people, especially with regard to their drug therapy, to its integration into their daily routine, and to any possible shortcomings in their medication management.