Predictive Factors of Health Literacy among the Elderly at Rural Area in Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the level of health literacy and important factors influencing health literacy among the elderly living in rural areas of Chiang Mai Province. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a sample of 400 elderly individuals using a questionnaire about health literacy of the elderly and a questionnaire regarding important factors influencing health literacy of the elderly, which includes bio-social factors, health service system factors, social and cultural factors and psychological factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's Product - Moment correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis.

The study found that the overall health literacy of the elderly was moderate-level (𝑥̅ = 2.10, S.D. = 0.78). In the meantime, the important factors influencing health literacy of the elderly in rural areas in Chiang Mai were found that the bio-social factors including age, occupation, monthly income, and length of being congenital disease, health service system factors, social and cultural factors, and psychological factors could explain the variations in health literacy among the elderly in rural areas of Chiang Mai with 56.40 percent (Adjusted R Square = 0.564, F = 85.380, p < 0.01).

The findings highlight the importance of strengthening health communication, expanding access to healthcare services and encouraging community involvement to enhance health awareness among the elderly. Effective collaboration among families, communities, and healthcare providers is significant for improving health literacy and promoting overall well-being in aging populations.