That does not mean that they cannot read or write. It means they are unable to hear, understand and act on healthcare information for decision making purposes. The consumer of healthcare services is not able to process the information that they get to make sound decisions.
While healthcare is consumed by the public at large, most of it is delivered directly to seniors. In addition to the lack of knowledge about healthcare, seniors may also have other issues that make understanding the importance of the decisions that they make more complex. They have sensory loss, for example. They may not be able to hear or see the information that is provided to them. They may have dementia and not be able to process the information that is being shared with them. They may also want to be “good patients” and not make any trouble by asking questions. Another issue is that they may be embarrassed to let others know that they do not understand the information.
Being healthcare illiterate can have grave outcomes. An important example of this is seniors not taking their medications as ordered because they do not understand the importance of it. This results in the primary reason that seniors are hospitalized. They do not understand the risks and the benefits of their decisions because of their healthcare illiteracy.
Healthcare providers have a role in this as well. We must deliver healthcare information in a way that the consumer will understand. We need to take the time to ask if the information is understood. Basic communication tools and strategies are of the utmost importance.
Healthcare illiteracy is a real and significant issue for the healthcare consumer. Ask questions. There are no dumb questions. Keep asking until you understand and then ask again. Be your own best advocate. If you need help, ask for it. Care managers and advocates can be especially beneficial in regards to this issue.