The effect of a geriatric simulation-enhanced interprofessional education on health profession students

Abstract

Background: Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, making it urgent to prepare health providers in interprofessional teams to care for those affected.

Methods: An unfolding geriatric simulation-enhanced interprofessional education program was de- signed using an ACE.S case and breakout activities for an interprofessional group of nursing, social work, speech therapy and nutrition students.

Results: Pre post education measures revealed a decrease in perceived challenges for interprofessional collaboration, with no change in readiness for interprofessional learning. Satisfaction with the education design was rated positively, and individual education components were rated as valuable.

Conclusions: This study offers educators an effective example of an unfolding active interprofessional geriatric education related to Alzheimer’s care.

James A. Grand

Associate Professor, Psychology

A scientist at heart, an organizational psychologist by training, and a lucky dad and husband all the time.