Individual characteristics and health literacy among the elderly in Malaysia

ABSTRACT Health literacy is a major lever to help individuals assume responsibility for their health. Past studies reported that the problem of health literacy is greatest among the elderly as they utilised more healthcare services and acquire more chronic illness compared to other age group. It is estimated that two-thirds of the elderly are unable to understand the information provided to them regarding the prescribed medication. Research on health literacy has taken place around the world, however research on health literacy among the elderly particularly in Malaysia is relatively small. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify individual factors that influence level of health literacy among the elderly in Malaysia as well as to fill the gap of information in this area. A positivist approach was used to explore the relationship between the variables. The study was primarily conducted via administered survey among 500 elderly outpatients who are 60 years old and above in public hospitals in Malaysia. The level of health literacy was measured using Health Literacy Management Scale (HeLMS), which measure knowledge where to access health and application to manage health. The results of the HeLMS are computed and the findings revealed that the respondents possess a high level of health literacy. The findings further revealed that age group, ethnicity, education and income level were associated with health literacy. As Malaysia is moving towards an ageing nation, the findings of this study will help the healthcare providers and policy makers in establishing provision of continuum care and services for elderly people