Shifting paradigms. Teaching gerontological nursing from a new perspective

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Education

Background:

• Gerontological health care is rapidly changing.
• Nursing education requires updates to address the needs of aging populations.
• The feminist movement's impact on healthcare is a parallel to current gerontological shifts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare future nurses with essential knowledge and skills for elder care.
• To advocate for a new perspective in gerontological nursing education.
• To address the growing population of older adults requiring specialized care.

Main Methods:

• Discussed a theoretical rationale for a new nursing education perspective.
• Examined an experiential clinical learning activity.
• Utilized a functional model of gerontological health care.

Main Results:

• The home visit clinical learning activity allows students to practice elder care.
• Students gain experience reflecting the health care needs of older adults.
• Strategies for replicating the learning activity are provided.

Conclusions:

• Experiential learning is crucial for effective gerontological nursing.
• Educational revisions are necessary for optimal care of older adults.
• The functional model provides a framework for gerontological practice.