An Interactive Technology Approach to Educate Older Adults About Drug Interactions Arising from Over-the-Counter Self-Medication Practices

摘要: An interactive computer program (Personal Education Program [PEP]) designed for the learning styles and psychomotor skills of older adults was used to teach about potential drug interactions that can result from self-medication with over-the-counter (OTC) agents alcohol. Subjects PEP on notebook computers equipped infrared sensitive touchscreens. were recruited senior centers. Those who met age, vision, literacy, independence, medication use criteria randomly assigned one three groups: (1) plus information booklet; (2) booklet only; or (3) control. A repeated measures (three time periods 2 weeks apart), three-group design used. Users had significantly greater knowledge self-efficacy scores than both conventional control groups at all points. The group reported fewer adverse behaviors over time. Reported did not change either groups. indicated a high degree satisfaction their intent make specific changes in behaviors.