Every October, we mark Health Literacy Month as a reminder of how vital it is for people to not only access health information, but also to understand and act on it.
Health literacy is more than just reading a prescription label or booking an appointment online. It’s about having the skills and confidence to make informed choices about our health.
Sixty per cent of Canadian adults lack the ability to reliably obtain, understand and act on health information and services to make appropriate health decisions on their own. Seniors are especially affected, with 88 per cent lacking health literacy skills. Some cannot follow basic instructions on a medicine bottle.
The challenge is that health literacy isn’t always distributed equally — and that makes it a matter of equity.
The equity gap
For many Canadians, navigating the health system can feel overwhelming. It’s not about intelligence or willingness; it’s about barriers that stand in the way of understanding and acting on health information.
Some of the most common barriers include:
- Language differences: It may be difficult to understand medical terms or paperwork written only in English or French if these aren’t your first languages.
- Limited literacy: Adults with lower reading or numeracy skills may struggle to interpret dosage instructions or appointment reminders.
- Digital divides: Increasingly, health information is online, yet not everyone has the internet access, technology or digital literacy to use these tools.
- Cultural differences: The way health information is explained or received can vary widely across communities.
These barriers disproportionately impact newcomers, seniors, rural residents and low-income families — groups who may already face other disadvantages in accessing timely and effective care.
Why health literacy is about equity
When people can’t understand their health information, the consequences are significant and can include:
- delays in seeking care
- misuse of medication
- improper management of chronic conditions
- higher hospitalization rates and overall health care costs
This creates a cycle. Poor health makes it harder to work, learn or care for family, while reduced income and opportunities make it even harder to access good health care. The result is a widening gap in both health outcomes and quality of life.
Health literacy isn’t just about knowledge — it’s about fairness. Everyone deserves the chance to understand their health and make informed choices.
Closing the gap
Improving health literacy starts with recognizing the barriers and breaking them down. That means:
- Plain language: Health care professionals can simplify the way they communicate, avoiding jargon and making information clear.
- Encouraging questions: Patients should feel comfortable asking “What does this mean?” or “Can you explain that another way?” without fear of judgment.
- Accessible community programs: Free, local resources can help adults build confidence in understanding and managing their health.
- Digital inclusion: Offering resources in multiple formats—print, online and even through workshops—ensures that no one is left behind.
How ABC Health Matters helps
ABC Health Matters empowers Canadians to manage their health more effectively by increasing their confidence when talking about and making decisions regarding health issues with family, friends and health professionals.
The free program provides practical tools that help adults develop a deeper understanding of how to advocate for their and their family’s health and better understand how to access health care.
Using clear, simple language and real-life examples, the program helps people:
- learn how to read prescription labels and health forms
- understand nutrition labels and food packaging
- ask the right questions at a doctor’s appointment
- navigate the health care system with confidence
A shared responsibility
Improving health literacy benefits everyone. It leads to better health outcomes, reduced health care costs and stronger, more resilient communities. Most importantly, it ensures that people—no matter their background or circumstances—have the tools to make informed decisions about their well-being. By breaking down barriers and making health information more accessible, we can create a fairer, healthier future for all.
To learn more about ABC Health Matters and to access free resources, visit abchealthmatters.ca.
