• Journal of East-West Nursing Research
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• v.30 no.2
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• pp.159-167
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• 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects of self-stigma related to depression, depression literacy, and professional help-seeking attitudes on medication adherence among older adult patients with chronic diseases who have experienced depression. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving a total of 163 patients with chronic diseases who had been taking medication for more than six months. Data were analyzed by independent t-test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis using SPSS/WIN 27.0 program. Results: The mean score for medication adherence was 14.86±2.27. Medication adherence showed a significant correlation with self-stigma of depression and depression literacy. Factors influencing medication adherence in older adults with chronic diseases who have experienced depression included self-stigma of depression, depression literacy, and age. Specifically, patients under 70 years of age, and patients between 70 and 79 years of age. The explanatory power of these variables was 11%. Conclusion: To improve medication adherence among older adult patients with chronic diseases who have experienced depression, it is essential to reduce self-stigma related to depression. Additionally, because depression self-stigma has a negative impact on proactive depression interventions, it is necessary to implement intervention activities aimed at raising awareness and reducing self-stigma.