Determining of Health Literacy Level in Elderly: An Example of Eastern Turkey

Authors : Hasret Yalçinöz Baysal, Metin Yildiz

Pages : 7-14

Doi:10.19127/mbsjohs.784674

View : 25 | Download : 10

Publication Date : 2021-04-30

Article Type : Research

Abstract :Objective: Knowing the health literacy levels of the elderly is important for better health care. The aim of this study was to determine health literacy level of the elderly. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2018 and November 2018. The study population comprised individuals aged over 65 years living in the eastern province, who applied to Family Health Centers for any reason between April 2018 and November 2018 and accepted to participate in the study (983 individuals). Personal information form and Health Literacy Scale were used to collect data Institutional and ethical approvals for the study were obtained. The number, percentage, mean, parametric and nonparametric tests and Pearson correlation test were used to evaluate the data. Results: The mean Health Literacy Scale total score of the participants was 44.00 ± 9.10. A statistically significant difference was found between the mean Health Literacy Scale total score of participants and the marital status, social security, chronic disease status, type of chronic disease and regular drug use. A weak negative correlation was found between the mean Health Literacy Scale scores of the elderly and age. Conclusion: As a result of our research, the health literacy level of the elderly is moderate and needs to be improved further. To increase the health literacy level of the elderly, local governments, health institutions and health workers should take the necessary measures.
Keywords : Elderly, Health literacy, Health promotion, Turkey