The Impact of Health Literacy on the Quality of Life in the Elderly Population

Purpose – The This study examines the association between health literacy and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among older adults aged 65+ in Korea using nationally representative survey data. Design/Methodology/Approach – Using 2023 KNHANES (9th cycle, year 2) data, a total of 1,666 elders were analyzed. HRQoL was measured by HINT-8; health literacy was constructed from 10 comprehension/judgement items. Complex survey–weighted linear regressions were applied with demographic and socioeconomic covariates. Findings – Health literacy showed a statistically significant positive association with HRQoL (β = 0.134, p < 0.001). A one-point increase in health literacy corresponded to a 0.168-point increase in HRQoL. Male sex (β = 0.134, p < 0.001), higher income (β = 0.024, p < 0.001), and higher education (β = 0.050, p < 0.001) were positively related to HRQoL, whereas age was negatively related (β = −0.080, p < 0.001). Research Implications – Results highlight health literacy as a modifiable determinant of HRQoL and support tailored literacy-enhancement strategies for socioeconomically vulnerable and the oldest-old subgroups. Policy programs should incorporate simplified communication (e.g., teach-back), digital access support, and lifelong learning to reduce QoL disparities.