October is Health Literacy Month

There are several variations of the definition of health literacy but the fundamental meaning is the same – it is one’s ability to get, process, and understand health related information and services they need to make appropriate health care decisions. There are a lot of factors that influence the way people understand and process health information especially if the information has to do with a complex medical condition. This is not different for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who often face challenges with health literacy or have limited health literacy skills. Historically we know that people with I/DD have all but been left out of the health literacy conversation with the majority of their medical decisions being made for them.

Over the past several years greater attention has been given to including people with I/DD in the health literacy discussion and supported health care decision-making. Supported decision making in a process that helps people with I/DD get support while maintaining control over their lives. The level of support is based on individual need and comes from a trusted support person that can help individuals understand treatment options, new medications, communications with the clinician or other important health care information. The Office of Developmental Primary Care has developed some great materials, videos and resources for self-advocates, family members, caregivers, clinician, policymakers and others. For more information about supported health care decision making visit: https://odpc.ucsf.edu/advocacy/supported-health-care-decision-making

If you are interested in learning more about Supported Decision-Making join The Arc Alameda for a FREE day long training Supported Decision-Making Boot Camp

Where: The Arc of Alameda

1101 Walpert St

Hayward, CA 94541

When:  9:30 am – 5:30 pm

October 13, 2018

To learn more and register visit:

https://arcalameda.org/content/uploads/sites/12/2018/08/Supported-decision-making-NorCal.pdf

Teresa Anderson, Policy Director, The Arc & UCP Collaboration