...Communicate clearly, simply, and in a variety of ways
Brookfield Zoo aims to have signs and interpretations written at a fourth- or fifth-grade reading level. Generally, this means using common, easy-to-understand words rather than complex scientific language. But sometimes more difficult words are needed. This is when they adopt other modes of educating. For instance, when Copeland teaches children about "metamorphosis," he might add humor by asking if they know that frogs lead "double lives." He then explains that frogs start out as tadpoles and demonstrates this concept by showing a puppet that flips from tadpole to frog.
The same principles can apply in healthcare. While we should use common words whenever possible (such as "cancer" instead of "oncology"), sometimes a more complex term is needed (like "metastasis"). In these instances, the provider needs to teach a patient what the term means and then follow up with diagrams or models to make the concept clear.
Combine color, images, and other design elements
Mogerman says that people retain information best when it is communicated in multiple ways. She mentions parking-lot signs that use colors, images, and numbers. " 'I parked on the third floor in the yellow section near the picture of a penguin' is an easy way for people to find their cars," says Mogerman.
Using a combination of design elements can make healthcare settings and healthcare information easier to navigate. For example, combining icons (like a picture of the heart), colors (perhaps red, green, and yellow meaning "don't enter," "enter," or "ask first"), numbers, or even soothing sounds can make complex information easier to understand. And when it comes to healthcare, we can all use better navigation systems.