Effectiveness of Community-Based Health Literacy Interventions among Informal Caregivers of Women and Children in India: A Mixed-Methods Study

Health literacy is a critical determinant of health outcomes, particularly among informal caregivers who play a central role in managing health and healthcare decisions for vulnerable populations. In low- and middle-income countries, community-based platforms such as Anganwadi Centres under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme serve as key sites for caregiver engagement. However, empirical evidence on the effectiveness of structured health literacy interventions for informal caregivers remains limited. The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a community-based health literacy intervention in improving health knowledge and caregiving practices among informal caregivers of women and children. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, comprising a cross-sectional assessment followed by an intervention phase. The study was conducted in selected Anganwadi Centres of Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu. A total of 120 informal caregivers (ICDS beneficiaries) participated in the baseline survey. Subsequently, 30 caregivers were randomly selected for a structured, one-day community-based health literacy intervention. Quantitative data were collected using a pre- and post-intervention knowledge assessment questionnaire, while qualitative insights were obtained through participant interactions and observations. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and paired t -tests. Post-intervention findings revealed a statistically significant improvement in caregivers’ health literacy across multiple domains, including personal hygiene, nutrition during pregnancy and lactation, breastfeeding practices, child care, and legal health rights ( p  < 0.01). Caregivers demonstrated increased awareness of preventive health practices and improved confidence in caregiving-related decision-making. Community-based health literacy interventions delivered through existing public health platforms significantly enhance the health knowledge of informal caregivers. Strengthening caregiver-focused literacy programs within ICDS can contribute to improved health outcomes for both caregivers and care recipients.