The system has helped, but Bazaldua still sees many patients whose health suffers because they can't read. A large, nationwide study published in the recent issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine suggests there may be even more at stake.
Older people who have difficulty reading had a 50 percent higher mortality rate over five years than those with adequate reading skills, according to the study, which included San Antonio adults in its sample.
People who can't read are not able to do the things to stay healthy, Baker explained. Doses are missed, medication is misjudged and directions aren't followed, he said.
Oralia Bazaldua uses small picture stickers on many medications. The system of pictograms she designed helps patients who have trouble reading pharmacy instructions to navigate their medications.
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