When it comes to our health, what we don’t know can hurt us. Yet, many older men across Australia continue to face serious health issues simply because they’re not equipped with the knowledge or confidence to make informed health decisions. That’s where health literacy comes in—and why it matters more than ever.
What is Health Literacy?
Health literacy is more than being able to read a pamphlet or understand a doctor’s instructions. According to the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, health literacy is “the ability to access, understand, and use information to make decisions about health and healthcare.”
In simple terms: Can you find good information about your health? Do you understand it? And can you act on it?
The Stats: A Worrying Picture
- 9 in 10 Australian adults do not have adequate health literacy, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS, 2018).
Less than one-quarter (22%) of people aged 60–74 had health literacy skills that were adequate or better.( Australia’s health 2018, Health literacy – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
- Low health literacy is linked to higher rates of hospitalisation, poorer overall health, and less frequent use of preventative services like screenings and check-ups.
Research published by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) shows that older men (aged 65+) are particularly vulnerable, often due to outdated attitudes around masculinity, reliance on a partner to navigate the healthcare system, or hesitancy to ask for clarification.
Why It Matters for Blokes
Let’s be honest—many of us blokes grew up in a time when talking about your health, asking questions, or admitting you didn’t understand something wasn’t the done thing. But times have changed, and the stakes are too high to stay silent.
Poor health literacy can lead to:
- Misunderstanding medication instructions.
- Skipping vital check-ups or screenings (like PSA tests or bowel cancer kits).
- Not recognising early signs of serious illness.
- Making avoidable lifestyle choices that impact long-term wellbeing.
The result? Worse health outcomes—and often, avoidable ones.
How Men Can Improve Their Health Literacy
The good news? Health literacy isn’t fixed. It can be improved, just like any other skill. Here’s how:
Ask Questions – and Keep Asking
Doctors and health professionals are there to help, but they can only support you if you speak up. If you don’t understand something, ask them to explain it again. There’s no shame in needing plain English.
Tip: Use the “Ask Me 3” method at appointments:
- What is my main problem?
- What do I need to do?
- Why is it important?
Or you can use the Question Builder on Health Direct’s website for more detailed questions: www.healthdirect.gov.au/questions-to-ask-your-doctor
Bring a Mate or Family Member
Another set of ears can help catch things you might miss. They can also take notes or help remember key points.
Use Reliable Sources
The internet is full of dodgy health advice. Stick to trusted sites like:
Join Group Conversations
Places like Men’s Sheds are ideal for building health literacy. When you talk to your mates about their experiences, you learn what questions to ask and what issues to look out for.
“Men’s Sheds give blokes the space to talk health without the stigma. You don’t need to be a doctor—just someone willing to listen, share, and learn.” – Dan Repacholi, Special Envoy for Men’s Health6.
Be Proactive – Not Reactive
Don’t wait until you’re in crisis. Schedule your regular check-ups, ask about age-appropriate screenings, and stay on top of things like blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes checks and mental health.
Let’s Build a Culture of Informed Blokes
Health literacy isn’t about being an expert. It’s about feeling confident to ask questions, get the right info, and make good choices for your health. It’s about taking responsibility without going it alone—something Men’s Sheds champion every day.
So the next time you hear a mate talk about feeling crook or confused by a doctor’s advice, don’t let the moment pass. Start the conversation, share what you know, and encourage each other to take action.
Because knowledge isn’t just power—it’s survival.