EDUKASI PENGGUNAAN OBAT YANG TEPAT UNTUK MENCEGAH DRUG-RELATED PROBLEMS PADA LANSIA DENGAN POLIFARMASI DIRUMAH

Abstract

Polypharmacy among older adults requires particular attention in pharmaceutical care because the use of multiple medications may increase treatment complexity and the risk of Drug-Related Problems (DRPs). Older adults using medicines at home may experience various medication-related problems, including incorrect administration schedules, inappropriate doses, non-adherence, duplicate therapy, potential drug interactions, and inadequate understanding of medication indications and use. This community service activity aimed to improve older adults' knowledge regarding appropriate and safe medication use to prevent DRPs. The activity was conducted in Sungai Mengkuang Village, Rimbo Tengah District, Bungo Regency, Jambi Province, involving 30 older adults. The activity consisted of participant characterization, a pretest, educational sessions using presentation materials and leaflets, interactive discussions, demonstrations of appropriate medication use, and a posttest. Based on activity data, the mean knowledge score increased from 58.33 ± 12.14 before education to 84.67 ± 8.76 after education. The proportion of participants with good knowledge increased from 23.3% to 86.7%. The most notable improvements concerned medication administration schedules, adherence, risks associated with concomitant medication use, drug interactions, and the importance of consulting healthcare professionals. The educational intervention showed potential to improve older adults' knowledge regarding appropriate medication use as a preventive strategy against DRPs at home.