Health literacy, dementia knowledge and perceived utility of digital health modalities among future health professionals

Abstract

Objectives: Studies of dementia knowledge (including dementia risk reduction) in health-care trainees highlight varying levels of understanding across countries and disciplines. This draws attention to the need for a well-trained health workforce with the knowledge to champion and implement such strategies. This study (a) assessed dementia knowledge and health literacy among a sample of Australian health-care students, (b) identified modality preferences of digital health interventions addressing dementia prevention and (c) examined potential relationships among health literacy, dementia knowledge, dementia prevention knowledge and a student's preferences for different digital health modalities. Methods:A cross-sectional survey assessed dementia knowledge and health literacy in 727 health students across 16 Australian universities representing both metropolitan and regional cohorts. The All Aspects of Health Literacy Scale and the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale were administered. Questions about the perceived effectiveness of strategies and preferred digital health modalities for dementia prevention/risk reduction were asked. Results:The students had relatively high health literacy scores. However, dementia knowledge and evidence-based dementia prevention knowledge were average. Only 7% claimed knowledge of available dementia-related digital health interventions. Associations among health literacy, dementia knowledge and dementia prevention, with recommendations for different digital modalities, are presented. Conclusions:Health-related degrees need to increase dementia knowledge, health literacy and knowledge of effective dementia-related digital health interventions. It is imperative to equip the future health workforce amid an ageing population with increased dementia rates and where evidence-based digital health interventions will increasingly be a source of support.

Association of digital health literacy, health lifestyles and psychological resilience among undergraduate nursing students in China: A cross-sectional study

“…This adaptability is essential for the effective integration of technology in nursing practice. 35 The results of this study indicate that the health lifestyle score of nursing undergraduates is 127.14 ± 11.22, suggesting a moderate level that still requires further improvement. Analyzing the reasons, with the development of the internet and technological advancements, the widespread use of computers and smartphones has provided a broader range of entertainment choices, leading to a decreased interest in activities such as physical exercise.…”

Digital health literacy: Helpful today, dependency tomorrow? Contingency planning in a digital age

“…The interesting article by Haydon et al 1 clearly presents information on the need to educate future healthcare professionals on the potential benefits of selected digital health interventions. The authors saliently raise the issue of a growing reliance on digital health as an issue relevant to the future workforce.…”

Digital health literacy to enhance workforce skills and clinical effectiveness: A response to ‘Digital health literacy: Helpful today, dependency tomorrow? Contingency planning in a digital age’

“…Helen M. Haydon 1,2 Centaine L. Snoswell 1,2 Cindy Jones 3,4 Melissa Carey 5,6 Melissa Taylor 7 Louise Horstmanshof 8 Richard Hicks 9 Mojtaba Lotfaliany 1,2,10 Annie Banbury 1,2…”

“…Health literacy, dementia knowledge and perceived utility of digital health modalities among future health professionals. 2 We thank them for their interest in our work and embarking on a productive debate. In reply, we provide a balanced perspective congruent with current health evidence.…”