Promoting effective drug-taking behavior in the elderly.

Nurses who wish to promote effective drug-taking behavior in their elderly patients must first enhance their knowledge of the required adaptations in education for older patients. Identification of patients' learning needs and factors affecting learning in the aged have been presented. Numerous strategies, based on current research and theory, were suggested. Goals for learning must be set with the patient. Teaching strategies should be individualized throughout the entire medication teaching program. The time spent in these endeavors will be worth the outcome: safer and more effective self-medication by the older adult.