Health literacy, defined as a person’s ability to understand and act on health information, is highly relevant in geriatric research today. Individuals with limited health literacy are more likely to misunderstand health information, inappropriately or infrequently use health care services, and have worse physical and mental health. Effective health communication is linked to improved patient satisfaction, adherence to medical recommendations, and positive health outcomes. Researchers in the division are engaging in highly innovative projects to enhance both health literacy and communication for vulnerable older adult populations.
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Telehealth and Telewellness: Patricia Griffiths, PhD; Madeleine Hackney, PhD; Theodore Johnson II, MD, MPH; Anna Mirk, MD; and Camille Vaughan, MD
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Health literacy: Katharina Echt, PhD
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Medical decision making and prognosis: Theodore Johnson II, MD, MPH and Laura Plantinga, PhD
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Reducing Polypharmacy in Vulnerable Elders: Anna Mirk, MD
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Care networks in Assisted Living: Molly Perkins, PhD, MA
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Medication Adherence Among Adults with Low Vision: Katharina Echt, PhD
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Developing a Research Participation Enhancement and Advocacy Training Program for Diverse Seniors (DREAMS): Madeleine Hackney, PhD and Molly Perkins, PhD
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Communication Strategies for Persons Living with Dementia: Katharina Echt, PhD and Patricia Griffiths, PhD