Polymedication and its association with individual factors in Portuguese older adults-a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT

Population aging is a reality resulting in polymedication and its harmful consequences. Therefore, determining polymedication state in Portugal and identifying its associated characteristics is vital. Methods: Among the cross-sectional study Nutrition UP 65, information on socio-demographic data, cognitive performance, lifestyle, health, and nutritional status was collected in the Portuguese older population. Frequency of polymedication (self-reported concomitant administration of ≥5 medications and/or supplements) was calculated. Associated factors were determined. Results: A total of 1317 individuals were included in the sample and the frequency of polymedication was 37.1%. Characteristics associated with higher odds of polymedication were living in an institution (OR 1.97; CI 1.04-3.73); being overweight (OR 1.52; CI 1.03-2.25) or obese (OR 1.57; CI 1.06-2.34); perceiving health status as reasonable (OR 1.68; CI 1.25-2.27) or bad/very bad (OR 2.04; CI 1.37-3.03); having illnesses of the circulatory system (OR 2.91; CI 2.14-3.94) or endocrine, metabolic, and nutritional diseases (OR 1.79; CI 1.38-2.31). Conclusions: A 3 to 4 out of 10 Portuguese older adults are polymedicated. Intervention in modifiable factors and the monitorization of others is an important strategy in the care of the elderly.