Week 6 Flashcards
Health Literacy
The term used to describe the ability to engage with health information and services
Each community and community member:
- has resources, attributes, limitations, and needs
- exists within a social and environmental context that influences their access to information and services
What is health literacy defined as in Canada?
The ability to access, comprehend, evaluate and communicate information as a way to promote, maintain, and improve health in a variety of settings across the life-course
What is the % of Canadians that are not health literate
60% of adults and 88% of seniors
What does being non-health literate mean?
have difficulty using the everyday health information that is routinely available in health care facilities, grocery stores, retail outlets, schools, through the media, and in their communities
Poor literacy skills make it hard to:
- access information to stay healthy
- follow instructions about medications and treatment
- keep appointments
- find vital health services and benefits
Populations with lower health literacy have:
lower life expectancy
increased number of accidents
increased incidence of diabetes
increased incidence of cardiovascular disease
Lower health literacy leads to
misuse of medication
more hospitalizations
misunderstanding of health information and medical directions
What is plain language
clear, effective, and written communication for your intended readers
Plain language is:
It is fair, open and inclusive. The focus is to write to
communicate, rather than to impress. A plain language
document is one in which people can:
* find what they need
* understand what they find
* act appropriately on that understanding
Reading level guidelines
Grade Levels
Specialized information for informed audience: 9 – college
Material written for the general public (newspapers): 6 – 8
Material written for general public including people whose first language is not English: 4– 6
