Web-based education of the elderly improves drug utilization literacy: A randomized controlled trial

Health Informatics J. 2021 Jan-Mar;27(1):1460458220977585. doi: 10.1177/1460458220977585.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of web-based education in the field of drug utilization on elderly individuals' knowledge of, concerns about and self-assessed understanding of drug utilization. The 260 included participants were randomized to a control group or an intervention group. To assess drug utilization literacy, we used a questionnaire containing 20 multiple-choice questions on drug utilization and ten statements about drug utilization (to which participants graded their response using a Likert scale: two about common concerns and eight about their self-assessed understanding of drug utilization). The Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire-General was also used. The intervention group scored higher on the knowledge questions (p < 0.001) and on six of the eight statements about self-assessed understanding of drug utilization at the first check after 2 weeks (p < 0.05). At a second check 6 months later, the difference remained for the knowledge questions, but there was no difference in self-assessed understanding of drug utilization between the groups. There were no differences in the concerns about drug utilization or beliefs about medication at any time. We conclude that a web-based education can improve drug utilization literacy in elderly individuals and might contribute to the safer use of medications.

Keywords: drug utilization literacy; e-learning; elderly; medication education; web-based education.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Drug Utilization
  • Educational Status
  • Health Literacy*
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Surveys and Questionnaires