Health Literacy-Focused Communication Training for Primary Healthcare Providers Working With Older Adults: A...

Low health literacy among older adults living in the community contributes to poor health outcomes. While communication training exists for specific conditions (e.g., hypertension), there is limited evidence on programs that enhance health literacy competencies among primary healthcare providers working with older adults. This study aims to co-design a health literacy-focused communication training program for general practitioners, practice nurses and allied health professionals in primary care.

This study drew on an Experience-Based Co-Design approach; three online workshops were conducted over 2 months with a participant group of adults aged 50+ years and primary healthcare professionals, facilitated by a multi-disciplinary research team. Activities involved a needs assessment informed by a prior scoping review, structured ideation and post-workshop surveys to prioritise communication competencies, training outcomes and delivery preferences. Competencies were synthesised into draft program modules, and participants reflected on the co-design experience.

Seven participants identified and prioritised nine core communication competencies spanning knowledge, skills and attitudes. The competencies were grouped into three-modules, deliverable by a mix of online self-paced subjects and in-person simulations. Evaluation surveys and qualitative feedback showed positive participant engagement in the sessions. The co-design process was refined iteratively to improve clarity and structure.

This structured yet flexible co-design process resulted in a final training program that integrates real-world needs with pedagogical frameworks and aligns with evidence from prior training interventions. There is potential for implementation in primary healthcare provider training environments.

Older adult consumers contributed lived experience to the co-design workshops, interpreting findings and shaping the training prototype. This manuscript was reviewed by a consumer.