Studies in Health Technology and Informatics · May 21, 2026

Digital Health Literacy and Dementia-Preventive Behaviors Among Rural Older Adults: Evidence from a Community-Based Study

By Choochot P, Sarawong K, Jaimunkandee T et al.

This study examined the relationship between health literacy and dementia-preventive behaviors among rural older adults in Northeastern Thailand. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 124 older adults (aged ≥ 60 years) in Maha Sarakham province. The questionnaire included demographic characteristics, six domains of health literacy, and dementia-preventive behaviors. Data were analyzed using correlation, ANOVA, Chi-square, and multivariable logistic regression. Results showed that total health literacy was positively associated with preventive behaviors (r = 0.25, p = 0.0047). After adjustment for covariates, high general health literacy (aOR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.02-4.36) and high digital health literacy (aOR = 2.73, 95% CI: 1.21-6.12) remained significant predictors of strong preventive behaviors. Enhancing digital and self-management literacy within community health systems may support dementia prevention among rural aging populations.

doi.org/10.3233/shti260600 Open access PubMed 42175269 Populations