Final answer:
People with limited health literacy may feel ashamed because they struggle to understand medical information, fearing judgement and feeling inadequate in a society that values independence. Social stigma, invisible disabilities, and the myths surrounding them contribute to this issue. Seniors, in particular, might avoid seeking help due to fears of dependence, and educational or cultural barriers amplify these challenges for others.
Step-by-step explanation:
People with limited health literacy often report feeling ashamed about their skill level because they may feel embarrassed or perceive themselves as inadequate when they cannot understand healthcare information, which is a common expectation in society. This sentiment can be attributed to the social stigma associated with illness and the pressures to be independent and self-reliant, particularly among those with chronic or invisible disabilities or conditions. The fear of being judged for seeking help or not understanding medical instructions can be profound and is compounded by the broader societal myths about disabilities and health conditions, which often are not visible, leading to misunderstandings about an individual's capabilities and needs.
For seniors, the distress associated with acknowledging the need for assistance with age-related issues can result in avoidance of seeking help. Such avoidance can have detrimental consequences, such as the delay in getting important healthcare like COVID-19 vaccinations. This reluctance is often driven by underlying fears of losing autonomy, as well as concerns about being deemed incapable or dependent.
Beyond age-related circumstances, educational and cultural barriers contribute to health literacy challenges. Individuals facing language barriers, racial and cultural discrimination, or simply the complexity of medical terminology may struggle to advocate for their health needs, feeling uncertain or intimidated, which all can lead to poor health outcomes and increased medical mistrust within communities.