Digital Health Literacy, Perceived Benefits, and Health-Promoting Behaviors Among Transition-Age Young Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Background/Objectives: This study examined the associations of digital health literacy and perceived benefits with health-promoting behaviors among transition-age young adults with developmental disabilities. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 137 participants recruited from six special schools and six social welfare facilities in C province (8 July–30 September 2025). Participants completed self-report measures of digital health literacy, perceived benefits, and health-promoting behaviors. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlations and hierarchical multiple regression, controlling for gender, age, type of disability, and independent digital health information-searching ability. Results: Mean scores were 2.47 for digital health literacy (1–4), 4.03 for perceived benefits (1–5), and 3.91 for health-promoting behaviors (1–5). Health-promoting behaviors correlated positively with digital health literacy (r = 0.50, p < 0.001) and perceived benefits (r = 0.68, p < 0.001). The Step 1 model, which contained only the control variables, was not significant (R2 = 0.05). Adding digital health literacy and perceived benefits significantly improved the model (Adj. R2 = 0.52; ΔR2 = 0.50). Digital health literacy (β = 0.36, p < 0.001) and perceived benefits (β = 0.56, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with health-promoting behaviors. Conclusions: Digital competencies and motivational cognitions, particularly perceived benefits, may be important factors associated with health-promoting behaviors in transition-age young adults with developmental disabilities. Health promotion programs may consider reinforcing perceived benefits through repeated, concrete experiences and feedback, and enhancing digital health literacy beyond basic searching through supported training in evaluation and self-expression skills. Future intervention studies should examine whether structured support environments enhance the effects of perceived benefits and digital health literacy training on health-promoting behaviors.