Influence of the Method of OTC Information Presentation on Older Adult Decision Making

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of the mechanism of information presentation on older adults' decision processes regarding over-the-counter (OTC) medications. The design compared the information use under typical market conditions (package labels) and information presented on a computer. Three OTC product categories were studied. The participants were 30 community-dwelling adults, 65 years of age or older. Information from OTC product labels was standardized and presented in a computerized, tabular format. This format was compared to actual packages of OTC products. Overall, greater availability of information resulted in 15% more information use. The computerized information allowed participants to be more organized and strategic as well as to use more information. Participants used less information in making decisions about pain relievers, relying more on their familiarity with the product. Results of the study indicate that older adults use information more efficiently and completely when its availability facilitates comparison between products, ensuring better decision processes.