Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2783-5505

Defense Date

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Dr. Terry Jones

Abstract

Background: Financial health literacy (FHL) is an emerging concept with unique application to older adults. Multiple complexities converge in older age that create increased financial vulnerability (e.g., retirement, chronic disease). However, low financial and health literacy are common in older adults, impacting their ability to self-manage. The AWV’s focus on prevention offers an opportunity to incorporate a proactive approach to financial-related assessment. This study will explore the perceived value of assessing FHL in primary care settings and the financial-related barriers and facilitators to implementing the personalized prevention plan.

Methods: The conceptual framework was guided by the Individual and Family Self-Management Theory. A qualitative descriptive design was used, and directed content analysis guided data analysis. Semi-structured interviews were done with older adults (n=16) and providers (n=5) who had completed or administered an AWV from two primary care clinics at two academic medical centers.

Results: Findings support that FHL is a modifiable risk factor that should be assessed in primary care. While most responses confirmed the value of incorporating a financial perspective into the AWV, financial questions are notably sensitive. Eight themes were identified and support the proposed conceptual framework of FHL.

Conclusions: Patients will benefit from targeted interventions to enhance FHL. Implications for policy, clinical practice, and education include a need to examine opportunities to enhance the AWV. Further research is needed to (1) support the development of a validated tool to measure FHL in older adults and (2) integrate a financial expert to support the primary care team.

Rights

© The Author

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

12-5-2025

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