Use and factors associated with non-disclosure of complementary and alternative medicine among older adults

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) includes a wide variety of treatments including modalities that are ingestible (e.g., vitamins/minerals), mind/body (e.g., yoga), and physical (e.g., acupuncture). Disclosure of CAM to medical care providers is important for avoiding potential health risks. The aim of the study was to elucidate reasons for CAM nondisclosure to physicians among a population of older adults. A sequential exploratory mixed-methods design utilizing quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews was employed. Linear regression was performed to evaluate variables that may contribute to disclosure. Ninety older patients from two primary care clinics–including 12 who completed qualitative interviews were included in this study. Participants were significantly less likely to disclose ingestible types of CAM compared to physical (p < .01) and mind/body modalities (p < .03). Linear regression resulted in a model that explained 25% of the variance in disclosure of ingestible forms of CAM; age, doctor’s opinion of CAM, and participants’ with less concern of their health were significantly related to disclosing CAM use. Qualitative interviews suggested that individuals over 70 years of age with longer lasting chronic conditions were less likely to disclose CAM as compared with those aged 65–69 who tended to use CAM for episodic and preventative care. Rates of CAM disclosure among older adults may be dependent on the participant’s age, their experience with health, and expectations surrounding communication with their physician. Understanding patterns of CAM use can help guide age-appropriate conversations and limit possible adverse outcomes from non-disclosure.