Taking control of one’s health is important at any stage of life, but even more critical as we age. Health literacy helps people become advocates for their health care. It is the degree to which someone can find, understand and use information and services to make health-related decisions. These decisions can be made on behalf of yourself or even by advocating for a friend or family member.
The data shows that Americans overwhelmingly struggle with health literacy according to the . This can lead to poor health outcomes and higher medical costs. That is why advocating for your needs and understanding your care are important.
You can online to establish a baseline and identify ways to improve your understanding.
Find resources
It is unwise to depend on search engines, generative AI or social media for medical diagnoses and treatment advice. Any information you are seeking online should be verified and from a reputable source such as the , condition-specific websites like the or the or even clinics like the .
“Be critical of information that seems promotional, or opinion-based,” said Patti Swager, M.Ed., director of the Nevada Geriatrics Education Center at the . “Consider how you like to learn information. If you prefer to read, find an article. If you prefer to learn visually, find a video. If you would prefer to connect with someone and start a dialogue, find a community partner to speak with.”
Ask questions
Your medical provider has expertise, but they may not provide the information in a way that is understandable. Ask them to break it down and be honest if you are uncertain of something.
“I suggest repeating what you understand and heard to ensure the information is correct,” said Swager.
Become comfortable with asking questions and prioritize your health care to ensure you make informed medical decisions. Get clarification and tell your medical provider if you need more information. Ask them to slow down or repeat things and if the end of the appointment is approaching, ask if someone on their team can explain in greater detail or ask for a resource or a referral to someone else.
“A pharmacist or a community resource can be as much part of your health care team as your medical provider,” said Leslie Baker, Pharm.D., BCGP, director of geriatric pharmacy services at the Sanford Center for Aging. “Ask questions about medications or any new symptoms you may be experiencing.”
Be an advocate or find one
“Health literacy empowers you to take charge of your care and support your friends and family in doing the same,” said Swager. “Sometimes it is better to have a person with you for an appointment to be an extra set of ears or to step in if you need it.”
Apart from being an advocate, find someone to support you as well. Ask a friend or family member to attend health care visits so you can better understand. This is especially helpful during appointments involving new information or situations that may already cause anxiety or concern. Having support can alleviate the stress of receiving the medical information being provided.
“I enjoy when someone comes in for a who is prepared with questions,” said Baker. “It helps us work together on health care plans and ensure everyone is on the same page. Having a conversation with medical professionals during an assessment can support any health initiatives from the medical provider.”
