Health literacy in people with intellectual disabilities: A mixed-method literature review

Abstract

People with intellectual disabilities are exposed to particular challenges within the healthcare system. In particular, elderly people with intellectual disabilities have special needs and require physical activity to prevent age-related diseases. Health Literacy could help people with intellectual disabilities to take participative health-related decisions. To be able to generate knowledge in this area, a literature search was carried out. For this the databases PubMed, Scopus, ERIC, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were searched. The research shows a research gap in the field of health literacy among people with intellectual disabilities. Nevertheless, three categories have been systematized: Barriers for People with Intellectual Disabilities, Health Literacy Promotion for People with Intellectual Disabilities, and Studies concerning the Concept of Health Literacy for People with Intellectual Disabilities. The studies found emphasize the importance of a target group specific health literacy concept for people with intellectual disabilities and a need to involve health professionals and adequate communication. In addition, conceptualisation considerations should take into account the specific skills and social context factors of people with intellectual disabilities. Furthermore, the results show that there is an urgent need for a target group-specific definition and measuring instruments.