16 Sep Health Literacy – A Vital Skill for Seniors
Health literacy is the ability to access, understand, and use health information and services to make informed decisions that promote and maintain good health and well-being. As we age, we may begin to face complex health challenges that may require a greater need for medical care. Health literacy is a skill that becomes vital when navigating challenging healthcare systems.
Health literacy is more than being able to read and understand medical terms, it involves the ability to think critically about your health. Health literacy is understanding and following medication instructions, interpreting lab results and health documents, recognizing and following healthcare provider recommendations, and making informed decisions about lifestyle habits, such as diet and exercise.
THE IMPORTANCE OF HEALTH LITERACY
Individuals, no matter how educated, can face health literacy issues when:
- They need to interpret statistics and evaluate the risks and benefits that may affect their health.
- They are diagnosed with a serious illness and are scared or confused.
- They have health conditions that require complicated self-care.
- They are under stress and need to make important health decisions.
High health literacy skills make seniors better equipped with the knowledge to evaluate and manage their health and help them avoid issues like misleading health information or medication mismanagement.
WAYS TO IMPROVE HEALTH LITERACY
Encourage Questioning. Building rapport with your healthcare providers encourages questions and provides essential clarification of important information.
Maintain Health Records. Keeping updated records of medical history, medications and/or allergies can improve communication with health providers.
Utilize Community Resources. Consumer-friendly resources are available at libraries, senior centers, and online. Additionally, some organizations offer health literacy programs and workshops designed for older adults.
Involve Family and Caregivers. Family members or caregivers can help reinforce important health information to seniors and serve as a “second set of eyes and ears” during medical appointments. They can also assist the seniors in encouraging questions or assist them in mentioning any health concerns to the health provider.
Health Literacy is vital for seniors and their well-being; it allows them to feel more in control of their health through making informed health decisions and helps them gain independence when they have confidence in managing their own health.
En Su Casa is here to be a Health Literacy resource. From determining the right in-home care plan to meet your needs, to helping you file for coverage – our team is ready to assist you and address any questions you may have. Call 210-922-9260 to schedule your consultation today!
