A move to improve health literacy for the ageing population
Health literacy is the level at which people can access, understand, communicate and act upon information in order to have good health. It is essential for quick recovery from illness. Better health literacy 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 was made clear in a survey in 2010 showing that 30-50 % of the population has limited capacities 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 IROHLA (Intervention research on health literacy among ageing population) project conducted an investigation of health literacy interventions among the ageing population in order to derive lessons from other sectors. The project was multidisciplinary in scope, involving a consortium of over 20 institutions and scientists from medical, paramedical, social and behavioural sciences, communication sciences and other fields. A theoretical framework was produced through a mixed-methods approach that was used for multiple domains, determinants, interventions and outcomes of health literacy. Partners conducted reviews and assessments of health literacy in three areas with a focus on older adults. These covered 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. In pilot studies the validity of the selected interventions was tested, e.g. in e-health, communication tools, training of medical personnel. Researchers carried out a quantitative study to determine health literacy and compliance with guidelines for physical activity and nutrition. They also investigated the mediating role of behavioural determinants and self-management among adults aged 75 and over. Further, the team conducted a series of participatory focus group discussions around the needs and perceptions of older adults in order to understand their perspectives. IROHLA produced guidelines for policy makers and for healthcare organisations. It includes a brief for decision-makers in healthcare focusing on methods for implementing good health literacy interventions, including capacity building. The project produced an interactive information portal on health literacy where updated relevant information is available for professionals who want to advance their knowledge in this area.
Keywords
Health literacy, elderly, ageing, good health, IROHLA, intervention research