Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Integrated Article

Degree

Master of Science

Program

Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Supervisor

Dr. Joy MacDermid

Abstract

Osteoporosis, a significant medical and socioeconomic threat, frequently results in fragility fractures in both men and women. This thesis delves into the various factors that impact how patients with osteoporosis adhere to their medication regimens, as well as the decision-making processes they go through after experiencing upper extremity fragility fractures. Employing qualitative interpretive description methodology, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with fourteen older adult patients at Hand and Upper Limb Centre, St. Joseph’s Hospital, through purposeful sampling. Thematic analysis of the transcripts revealed vital factors such as social support, personal health beliefs, side effect management, and treatment accessibility that influence medication adherence. Findings indicate that clear communication, proactive side effect management, and logistical support are critical in enhancing medication adherence. This research underscores the importance of incorporating implementation science principles to develop targeted interventions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the incidence of osteoporotic fractures. The study’s insights contribute to developing comprehensive strategies for better osteoporosis management in older adults.

Summary for Lay Audience

Osteoporosis is a condition that mostly affects older adults, who have brittle bones and are likely to break certain bones. Because the healing process is time-consuming and difficult, scientists must conduct studies regularly to increase their knowledge and help older adults avoid taking more breaks. We did a study to find out why some older people, who have already broken an arm, take their medicine while other people don't, and what keeps them from continuing to take their medicines. We conducted interviews with 14 patients who were 65 and above, had osteoporosis, and had broken arms before. Our participants indicated that how their doctors communicated with them was very important. This means that patients are more likely to take their medicines when their doctors take the time to explain points and address their concerns. We also realized that people may stop taking their medicine if they feel rushed or ignored. Many stop taking it because they fear side effects, even though it prevents more breaks. Participants of our study also disclosed that their other health problems could affect how they decide about starting their medications. Moreover, having support from family and friends is very beneficial, as it has been observed that participants of our study were more likely to take their medications when their family and friends were actively involved in their treatment. We also came across the fact that it can sometimes be challenging to get medicine, especially in places where it's tough to see a doctor or get to a drugstore. Therefore, if individuals had easier access to their family doctor and drugstore, they would undoubtedly continue to take their medications. People we spoke with favoured simple medications that didn't interfere with their daily routines, such as those that required less frequent administration. As a conclusion, the results of our study helped us understand that people would rather take their medicine as prescribed if their doctors knew these points, and this can help people with osteoporosis live longer by stopping more bone breaks.

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