Whats Health Literacy and Why Is It Important for Kids?
Health literacy refers to the ability to read and understand information provided about health conditions. This can be a serious problem for those who are older or don’t speak English – they may get health information or instructions from their doctor that they don’t understand. As a result, they may not know how much medicine to take or how to best take care of their illness. So, it’s especially important for kids and adults who may have trouble understanding written information to know where – or to whom – they can go if they have questions. Getting sick (even if it’s a common condition like pinkeye) can be scary and overwhelming for children and adults alike. And medical procedures – whether they’re as basic as getting a shot or as complex as going through surgery – can seem downright terrifying. Being armed with the answers – the right ones, that is – can help to educate and, therefore, reassure your child about his or her own health. Being health literate can help people of all ag
