Dietetics students' low knowledge, attitudes, and work preferences toward older adults indicate need for improved...

This study examined students' knowledge and attitudes about aging and their interest in working with the older adult population in the United States.

A 97-item questionnaire included demographic items, a ranking section on work preferences by age groups, and two validated scales: the Palmore Facts on Aging Quiz, and the Oberleder Attitude Scale.

Those surveyed were enrolled in the 10 largest universities in the 5 states with the largest population of older adults: California, Florida, New York, Texas, and Pennsylvania. Of 555 questionnaires that program directors requested for their class(es), 299 completed questionnaires were returned. This 54% return rate was affected by program directors requesting more questionnaires than needed. Of the 299 dietetics/nutrition students who completed the survey, 65% were in the 18 to 22 year age range, 91% were women, 81% were non-Hispanic white, and 81% were seniors in college.

Pearson's correlation was applied to test for relationships between knowledge and attitudes; t tests for differences in knowledge, attitudes, and work preferences by age, gender, and experience with older adults; and Tukey's multiple comparison test for differences in knowledge, attitudes, and work preferences by state.

Students had low knowledge about aging (Palmore, mean percent correct +/- standard deviation = 40.1%+/-13.0%) and neutral attitudes toward older adults (Oberleder, mean score = 69.1+/-8.2). When asked which of 10 age groups they preferred to work with, respondents ranked the 3 oldest age groups (65 to 74, 75 to 84, 85 and older) lowest on average (6.0, 7.3, 8.6, respectively).

More didactic instruction about aging and more positive experiences with older adults through fieldwork may be needed to prepare future practitioners to provide nutrition services to this increasing population segment.