Which of the following best describes the impact of health literacy on individuals?

Health literacy significantly enhances an individual's capacity to navigate the healthcare system effectively. This encompasses understanding medical terminology, interpreting health information, and making informed decisions regarding medical care and treatment options. When individuals have a solid level of health literacy, they are better equipped to engage with healthcare providers, follow medical instructions, understand their health conditions, and advocate for themselves within the healthcare system.

Improved navigation in healthcare not only allows individuals to utilize services more effectively but also leads to better health outcomes. They are more likely to understand and complete necessary paperwork, comprehend insurance details, and seek preventive care, ultimately fostering a more proactive approach to health management. Individuals with high health literacy are also more adept at critically evaluating health-related information, which is crucial in today's information-rich environment.

The other options, while they may correlate with health literacy in various contexts, do not directly define its primary impact. For instance, improved financial security relates more to economic factors than to health literacy itself, while higher levels of social interaction and better access to legal support are not intrinsic to the individual's ability to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Thus, the increased capacity to navigate healthcare effectively is the most accurate description of the impact of health literacy on individuals.