APA Dictionary of Psychology

the cognitive and physical ability to take prescribed medications as directed. Literacy, reading comprehension, familiarity with the language in which the medication instructions are given, the ability to open medicine containers, and the ability to schedule and keep track of dosage time are some of the skills that factor into this capacity. Researchers are investigating methods of assessing medication management capacity as well as approaches to developing that capacity in patients. Pharmacists can also help to support that capacity through medication therapy management—for example, by reviewing and tracking patients’ medications and recommending strategies to help them stick to their drug schedules.