The IROHLA project aims at innovating the conceptual understanding of health literacy interventions in Europe. Health literacy is one of the social determinants of health and reflects how well persons can understand, digest and critically reflect on information with regard to health and illness. People with sufficient health literacy skills are able to act proactively on health issues, take their own decisions and manage health and illnesses well. Right now in EU countries 10% – 30% of the population has insufficient health literacy skills, which is associated with higher morbidity and mortality, while utilisation of health services is higher and treatment outcomes are poorer than average. Health literacy is a major issue amongst the ageing population in Europe. Tackling health literacy problems in the ageing population leads to social innovation and leads to reduction of costs of healthcare.The IROHLA project will investigate health literacy interventions among the ageing population and will draw lessons from other sectors, e.g. the social sector and the commercial sector. By involving scientist from medical, paramedical field, social and behavioural sciences, communication sciences and other related fields, the project will be truly multidisciplinary. The project will involve stakeholders from the ageing population and from levels of government.The project will develop a comprehensive approach for health literacy among the ageing population, based on synergetic effects of empowerment and health literacy communication, which countries can apply in prevention, curative services and care services. The project will concentrate on modern media and e-health applications. The final product will be a guideline for policy and practice with (max) 20 high potential interventions that together will improve health literacy of the ageing population. The project will make a direct contribution to the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing.