Improving Comprehension in Written Medical Informed Consent Procedures

Abstract

Older adults are frequently required to undergo medical informed consent procedures. This study investigates the influence of four types of written language and visual support (Elaborated Plain Language, Easy-to-Read Language, Standard Version with additional picture, Easy-to-Read-Language with additional picture) on comprehension and affect, compared with the Standard Version alone. In an online survey, n = 87 younger participants aged 26–59 and n = 72 older participants aged 60–81 read a simulation of an informed consent form. Directly after reading it, we used the Understanding dimension of the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment (MacCAT-T) to ask them about the information presented in the form. The results showed that, by reducing complexity and elaborating the provided information, comprehension of medical information could be improved in the older participant group. In the so-called Elaborated Plain Language groups, the results were the same for younger and older participants. This was not true for the groups that received the Standard Version, on which younger participants performed better. Variations in the language used had no influence on affect. Our conclusion is that Elaborated Plain Language can be recommended for use in medical informed consent procedures with older patients and should be taught to medical professionals.