Standing in their shoes: an experiential learning experience in promoting age sensitivity

The anticipated rise in the elderly population has been well documented. Nurses working in staff development have an important role in enabling healthcare staff to gain insights into the challenges of the aging process and positively affect the quality of life of elderly clients. This experiential program incorporates a variety of learning strategies to immerse staff in the elderly clients' world. Evaluations of the session have identified the need for staff to exercise patience, be proactive in anticipating elderly clients' needs, and appreciate client individuality.