Television Health Talk Shows as a Media for Health Literacy for Stroke Survivors

Abstract

This study examines television health talk shows as a medium for strengthening health literacy among stroke survivors, with particular attention to understanding, motivation, and adaptation to healthy lifestyles. Using a descriptive qualitative design, the study involved ten stroke survivors from the Indonesian Holistic Stroke Rehabilitation Community (KRESHNA), supported by family, caregiver, and community perspectives. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, limited observation, and documentation, then managed and coded with NVivo. The findings show that television health talk shows are perceived not merely as entertainment, but as accessible sources of practical health information. Expert speakers provide credibility, popular language simplifies medical concepts, visuals and demonstrations make recommendations concrete, while patient testimonials generate hope and emotional identification. Stroke survivors actively obtain, understand, evaluate, and interpret messages according to their bodily experiences, recovery needs, family support, and rehabilitation-community context. This process strengthens motivation and self-management, particularly in maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in light physical activity, adhering to medication and therapy, managing stress, and preventing recurrent stroke. The study concludes that television health talk shows can function as educational, motivational, and supportive communication media in post-stroke recovery. Their value lies in translating medical information into meaningful, practical, and socially reinforced lifestyle guidance effectively.