Effect of health literacy towards medication compliance on elderly with hypertension: An updated literature review

Abstract

Objective

This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of health literacy to medication adherence in the elderly with hypertension.

Method

Several databases used in this review literature were Pubmed, Science Direct, advanced Google Scholar, and also from grey literature. 76 articles related to health literacy and compliance with hypertension treatment in the elderly were identified and published from 2010-2019. Of the 76 articles, 11 articles met the review requirements.

Results

From 11 articles, it was found that health literacy has a direct effect and is a mediator in improving medication adherence, especially taking the medication regularly and according to the recommended dosage in hypertensive elderly.

Conclusion

Health literacy has an immediate effect that can improve medication adherence and take medication according to the recommended dosage in hypertensive elderly. The elderly with a higher level of health literacy will show more adherence to medication and other treatments.