Health Literacy, Self-Management Behaviors, and Health-Related Quality of Life of the elderly with Hypertension in Korea’s Urban and Rural Areas

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore health literacy, self-management behaviors, and health-related quality of life, and to examine the factors influencing the health-related quality of life of elderly people with hypertension living in urban and rural areas.

Methods/Statistical analysis: From November to December, 2017 trained research staff collected data. For two months, 160 urban and rural residents who taking antihypertensive medications, consented to participate in the research, of which, 157 completed the survey. Descriptive statistics, t-test, Pearson correlations, and stepwise regression were used.

Findings: The health literacy of older adults who took antihypertensive medication did not differ in urban areas compared to rural areas. However, the elderly in urban areas reported higher self-management behaviors, while those in rural areas reported a higher health-related quality of life. Health literacy and self-management behaviors were highly correlated. The factors, including older adults in urban areas and those aged 60 to75 years, had the influence on health-related quality of life.

Improvements/Applications: The research findings suggest the design of a health promotion program for older adults with hypertension, considering health literacy, place to live, and the participant’s age , to improve health-related quality of life.