Abstract

Objectives: This research examines adults with learning disabilities' (LD) approach to finding information about their health. More specifically, how their literacy and numeracy skills influence their health-related source preferences. It further examines the potential effect of demographics on source of choice. Methods: This study used U.S. data from the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC), analyzing responses from 3,660 adults, including 316 who self-identified as individuals with LD. The analysis was guided by Wilson's Information Seeking Behavior (ISB) model. Regression models were used to assess the impact of cognitive and demographic factors on preferred health information sources. Results: Adults with LD most frequently relied on the internet, healthcare professionals, and family for information regarding their health and utilized printed materials such as magazines and brochures significantly less than their peers without LD. Further findings indicated that adults with learning disability scored substantially lower in literacy and numeracy skills than general population. When it came to health related questions, women were more likely than men to consult people directly. Participation in lifelong learning was also lower among adults with LD (49%) compared to others (55%). Conclusions: The findings underscore the need for accessible digital and interpersonal resources that align with the cognitive strengths of adults with LD. They also suggest the importance of promoting digital literacy, which could be achieved through lifelong learning participation. Additionally, the findings highlight the need to improve the way health-related information is distributed to adults with learning disabilities.