Analysis of the Effect of Family-Centered Empowerment Model (FCEM) Health Education Through WeChat on Medication Compliance and Blood Pressure of Elderly Hypertensive Patients in Rural Areas

Abstract

Objective: To validate the effectiveness of a Family-Centered Empowerment Model (FCEM) health education through WeChat on medication compliance and blood pressure among elderly hypertensive patients in rural areas. Methods: One hundred and two rural elderly hypertensive patients aged 65–80 years were selected and randomly divided into an experimental and control group of 51 each. The control group implemented conventional health education, and the experimental group implemented FCEM health education through WeChat platform for 4 consecutive weeks. The Therapeutic Adherence Scale for Hypertensive Patients (TASHP) scores and blood pressure measurements were compared between and within the two groups. Results: After the intervention, there were significant differences in medication compliance and blood pressure between the two groups (P < 0.001). In the control group, before and after the intervention, there was a significant difference in medication compliance (P < 0.001), but no significant difference in blood pressure (P > 0.05). In the experimental group, there were significant differences in medication compliance and blood pressure before and after the intervention (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The FCEM health education through an online social platform significantly improved medication compliance and led to effective blood pressure control in rural elderly hypertensive patients. Therefore, as an effective, safe, and economical model, it is also necessary to explore its effectiveness in improving health problems in other chronic diseases and other age groups.