Interventions to improve medication adherence in elderly individuals: A scoping review of current evidence

Medication nonadherence among elderly individuals is a persistent global health challenge that compromises therapeutic outcomes and escalates healthcare expenditures. This scoping review aimed to map the landscape of interventions designed to improve medication adherence in this population, evaluate their effectiveness, and identify key evidence gaps. Guided by the PRISMA-ScR framework, a systematic search was conducted across four main electronic databases; PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL and Web of Science for English-language primary studies published between 2000 and 2026. Eligible studies included those evaluating interventions with the primary or secondary objective of improving medication adherence among elderly individuals (mean/median age ≥65 years, or ≥60 years for dedicated geriatric populations). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-experimental, and observational studies were included. Qualitative studies, secondary research (reviews/meta-analyses), and conference abstracts were systematically excluded. Out of 4,890 records identified, 16 primary studies (13 RCTs, 2 cohorts, 1 pilotrandomized trial) met the inclusion criteria. Interventions were categorized into five main types: educational/informational, behavioral/cognitive, social/family support, health system/provider-led, and digital health/technology. While single-component strategies (such as standalone brochures or unmonitored digital apps) provided immediate, short-term improvements, multifaceted interventions demonstrated superior effectiveness. Specifically, nurse- or pharmacist-led programs that combined tailored education with behavioral reinforcement (e.g. habit formation, pill organizers) and digital aids yielded sustained, long-term medication adherence gains and significant improvements in clinical parameters, such as blood pressure control and lipid profiles. The evidence suggests a critical shift away from isolated, single-component tactics toward comprehensive, interprofessional care models. Multifaceted programs that integrate clinical oversight, behavioral tools, and technological solutions appear most effective in optimizing medication adherence among elderly individuals. Future research should focus on the long-term sustainability of these interventions in vulnerable geriatric subgroups.