EFFECTS OF LITERACY ON HEALTH CARE OF THE AGED: IMPLICATIONS FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

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Abstract
For optimal outcomes, the older patient must be able to understand oral instructions and read and understand written instructions, prescription labels, educational brochures, and consent forms. Low literacy skills in these patients may complicate adequate health care maintenance. Specially designed patient education programs are needed for many older patients with complex medical regimens and limited low literacy. Health care professionals must first assess patients’ educational needs. Patients can then be given oral instructions and written materials suitable for their needs and level of reading ability. These materials could help promote healthy aging and independent health care maintenance.

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