Caring for the Elderly Enhances Positive Attitudes Better Than Knowledge in Nursing Students

Abstract

Background and Objectives: There is a growing interest in the measurement of attitudes towards older people in healthcare professionals, as there is a need to implement interventions to improve ageist attitudes. A one group pretest–posttest study was carried out to explore the change in nursing student attitudes towards the elderly during their university careers. Materials and Method: A total of 97 nursing students were enrolled. Attitudes were analyzed using Kogan’s Attitudes Toward Old People Scale. Results: The attitude was positive from the beginning of the study, with a score of 110.06 (12.92). No differences were observed after completing the subject “Care of the elderly” (106.21 (10.77)), though a significant increase was recorded after the completion of clinical placement (142.88 (12.64)), with a large effect size (η2p = 0.754). The score of the positive items was significantly increased, but not that of the negative items, as ageist attitude was not reduced. Conclusion: The current curricular design, that includes taking the theoretical course before clinical placement in the geriatric area, increases positive attitudes in nursing students but does not reduce ageist attitudes.

Registered nurses' perceptions and experience of working in aged care: A qualitative approach

“…Clinical simulation education has garnered attention for its effectiveness in reshaping attitudes among clinical staff and improving care quality. Similar studies collectively illuminate the impact of simulation education on nurturing positive attitudes and elevating care standards (Castellano‐Rioja et al., 2022; Gholamzadeh et al., 2018; Kim et al., 2021; Martínez‐Arnau et al., 2022). This alignment underscores the significance of simulation education as a multifaceted tool with cross‐cutting relevance.…”

“…To bridge this gap, it is advisable to introduce theoretical courses preceding clinical placement, establish credentialing mechanisms for aged care nursing education, and provide ongoing opportunities for professional development. These measures collectively aim to enhance the quality of care provided to hospitalised older individuals while also nurturing more positive attitudes towards older people (Baumbusch et al., 2017; Castellano‐Rioja et al., 2022; Koehler et al., 2016).…”