Evaluation of printed health education materials for readability and suitability for older adults

摘要

This study evaluated twelve printed health educational materials for readability and suitability for use by older adults. Using two formulas, the Fry Readability Graph and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) for readability, and the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) to measure suitability, four popular materials for each of three medical conditions including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol were evaluated. All twelve printed health educational materials were written at grade 6-9 levels and considered not appropriate in regard to readability for use by older adults. Four of the materials were rated as suitable for use by older adults based on comprehension of the material using the SAM tool.;Gerontologists can assist agencies in developing and revising printed health education materials by ensuring that materials are designed specifically for older adults.