Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Methods Among Elderly People Living in Nursing Homes

Abstract

Aim: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) usage hasincreased among the elderly. To promote comprehensive qualitycare, health professionals should assess for CAM usage. Thisstudy was planned to determine the CAM usage among elderlyliving in nursing homes in Istanbul.Material and Method: This study was made in two nursing homesin Istanbul between December 2012 and May 2013. The studysample consisted of 230 elderly.Results: A percentage of 59.1 of elderly (n=136) used CAM. Herbs(55.2%) and non-herbal supplements (53.5%) were the most frequentlyused therapies. CAM usage rate was higher among elderlywho graduated from secondary school, had chronic disorder, andused medicine regularly (p <0.05); 65.4% of them did not informhealthcare personnel.Conclusion: CAM is used commonly by elderly living in nursinghomes. Herbal (parsley, garlic and mint) and non-herbal supplements(honey, vitamin B, Vitamin C) were used commonly. Elderlywho graduated from secondary school, had chronic disorders,and used medicines regularly preferred using CAM. Elderly generallydo not inform healthcare personnel that they have used thesemethods.