Development and Validation of the Medication Use Competency Scale for Older Adults

Purpose To develop a scale for evaluating the medication use competency of older adults and verify its psychometric properties. Method The Medication Use Competency Scale (MUCS) was initially formulated based on a literature review, theoretical frameworks, and qualitative interviews using a hybrid model. The scale was then tested on 245 older adults. Results Exploratory factor analysis identified 23 items across five factors: attitude, physical skills, knowledge, effort to sustain, and cognitive skills, explaining a significant portion of the variance. Construct validity was verified, along with criterion validity, which demonstrated a moderate correlation ( r = 0.40, p < 0.001) with the eight-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale. The scale exhibited strong internal consistency, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.84, and test–retest reliability of 0.73 ( p < 0.01). Conclusion The MUCS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing medication use competency in the older adult population. [ Research in Gerontological Nursing, xx (x), xx–xx.]