Work

Determinants of self-reported health literacy among older adults in South Korea: a cross-sectional study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: This study aimed to identify the determinants of self-reported health literacy among older adults aged 65 years and above in South Korea. Methods: Data were obtained from the 2021 Korean Health Panel Survey, including 4,220 participants aged 65 and above. Statistical analyses such as t-tests, ANOVA, and logistic regression were conducted to examine the effects of personal characteristics and health behaviors on self-reported health literacy. Results: The analysis revealed that men, younger participants, those with spouses, higher education levels, and individuals engaging in positive health behaviors-including non-smoking, non-drinking, and regular exercise-had significantly higher levels of self-reported health literacy. Conclusion: These findings suggest the importance of developing targeted strategies to improve health literacy among older adults, particularly focusing on personal characteristics and health behaviors that are associated with higher health literacy.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1628245

Authors: Jieun Shin, Seunghui Baek

Institutions: Konyang University, Sungshin Women's University

Language: English

Topic: Health Literacy and Information Accessibility

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801