Which characteristic indicates a high level of health literacy in an older adult?

Proactive involvement in research about health issues demonstrates a high level of health literacy in an older adult. Health literacy encompasses the ability to find, understand, and use health-related information to make informed decisions about one's health. When an older adult actively seeks out and engages with research on health issues, it indicates that they are not only aware of their own health needs but also motivated to enhance their understanding of those needs. This characteristic shows that they can navigate health information effectively and apply it to their decision-making, which is a crucial aspect of managing health, especially in later years when individuals may face complex health challenges.

In contrast, reliance on others for medical decisions, disinterest in understanding medications, and minimal interaction with health professionals suggest a lack of engagement or initiative in managing one's health. Those characteristics are typically associated with lower health literacy, as they reflect a dependence on others rather than an individual's own ability to comprehend and apply health information.