Health Literacy and Media Preferences with Stroke Survivors

Abstract

Limited health literacy skills have been determined in the general population, yet studies on specific populations impaired by disease are lacking. These are the populations who utilize the health care system the most; however, they are also understudied. Various educational topics are provided to these populations in different formats and when health literacy ability is lower than the education being provided, the clients' abilities to understand are affected. This can lead to noncompliance, increased hospitalizations and/or poor health choices. This study examined a convenient sample of 30 stroke survivors who attend a community based education program in the greater Kansas City area. To be included in the study, the participants had to have functional vision with all visual fields intact and score above the dementia impairment zone on the SLUMS. Exclusion criteria included demonstration of aphasia and non-English speaking. In examining this group, their health literacy abilities were assessed using a health literacy screen which utilizes six questions about a nutrition label as its measure. The participants were also asked about their educational media preference type. Demographic information was collected which included age, income, educational level and computer use time. Results showed significant findings with relationships of educational level, income and health literacy levels. The participants did not indicate any educational media preference. Also more than two-thirds of the sample was identified as being at risk for limited health literacy using the literacy screen. The significant findings of education and health literacy levels must be examined with caution as education has been determined to be a poor indicator of literacy ability due to education quality variance. Income is also indirectly linked with education and health literacy levels. However, clinically this sample was identified as an increased risk for limited health literacy skills. Ascertaining the correct level of education allows for understanding with the provision of education. It was also of note this sample would be accepting of education in any format as long as they were being provided with information which was relevant to them.