Empowering Elderly Communities through Health Literacy and Social Support Programs

Authors

  • Asep Lukman Hakim Universitas Padjadjaran Bandung, Indonesia

Keywords:

elderly empowerment, health literacy, social support, chronic disease management, community health program

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to address the challenge of the growing elderly population facing chronic diseases and social isolation by empowering elderly communities. The research focuses on enhancing health literacy and social support as key factors to improve self-management and well-being among elderly individuals.

Design/methods/approach – A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving qualitative interviews with elderly participants and health workers, combined with quantitative analysis of health data from community health center programs. The intervention included health education sessions, peer support groups, and periodic health monitoring.

Findings – Results show significant improvement in participants’ health literacy, increased adherence to treatment plans, and enhanced social engagement. Quantitative data demonstrated a 25% improvement in blood pressure control and a 30% reduction in self-reported feelings of loneliness over six months.

Research implications/limitations – The study highlights the effectiveness of integrated health literacy and social support interventions but is limited by its localized setting in Puskesmas Kecamatan Temanggung and variability in participant commitment, which may affect the generalizability of results.

Originality/value – This research contributes valuable insight into community-based programs for elderly health empowerment. It encourages the replication of such integrative models in similar demographic settings and suggests future research on digital tools to further support elderly health literacy.

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Published

2025-07-30 — Updated on 2025-07-30

How to Cite

Lukman Hakim, A. (2025). Empowering Elderly Communities through Health Literacy and Social Support Programs. Bima Cendikia : Journal of Community Engagement and Empowerment, 2(2), 149–161. Retrieved from https://ejournal.maronpublishing.com/index.php/bima/article/view/19

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