Boosting health literacy for the elderly

Health literacy is the level at which people can access, understand and communicate information in order have good health. It is essential for a quick recovery from illness and can contribute to higher life expectancy, better health status and less chronic illness. Evidence shows that people who have lower levels of health literacy usually have lower levels of education and are from lower socioeconomic groups.

For the EU, health literacy is an area in need of improvement, which is evident based on a survey in 2010 showing that 30-50 % of the population is limited in this area, particularly the ageing group. This is due to a combination of mental, social and economic conditions. Since the best means to tackle health literacy issues of the ageing population are still needed, the EU-funded 'Intervention research on health literacy among ageing population' (IROHLA) project is undertaking an investigation of health literacy interventions among the ageing population in order to derive lessons from other sectors.

The project is multidisciplinary in scope, involving a consortium of over 20 institutions and scientists from medical, paramedical, social and behavioural sciences, communication sciences and other fields. Thus far, a theoretical framework has been produced and a mixed-methods approach used for multiple domains, determinants, interventions and outcomes of health literacy.

Reviews and assessment of health literacy were conducted in three areas focusing on older adults. These are adherence to medical plans, comprehensibility of health-related documents, and influence of the social, cultural and physical environment on the effects of health literacy interventions.

A quantitative study was conducted to determine health literacy and compliance to guidelines for physical activity and nutrition, and into the mediating role of behavioural determinants and self-management among adults aged 75 and over. Researchers also conducted a series of participatory focus group discussions around the needs and perceptions of older adults to understand their perspectives.

Ultimately, the project plans to produce a guideline for policy and practice. This will include a brief for decision makers in health care and methods for implementing good health literacy interventions, including capacity building. The link between research and practice will be established and future research areas will be identified.