An active-learning course model to teach pharmacotherapy in geriatrics

Area of Science:

• Geriatric pharmacotherapy education
• Patient-centered pharmaceutical care
• Active learning strategies in pharmacy

Background:

• Effective pharmacotherapy education for older adults is crucial.
• Traditional didactic methods may not fully engage pharmacy students.
• Developing a patient-centered approach is vital for geriatric care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the creation, rollout, and evaluation of a geriatric pharmacotherapy elective.
• To implement a patient-centered approach and active, self-directed learning.
• To assess the impact on doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students' learning and perceptions.

Main Methods:

• Course content included aging concepts, geriatric syndromes, and complex patient assessments.
• Innovative teaching methods: book/film clubs, Adopt-a-Patient project, site visits.
• Students engaged in scientific and reflective writing, and direct interaction with older adults.

Main Results:

• Student evaluations indicated strong agreement that course goals were met.
• Key learning areas: communication with older adults and complex medication regimen assessment.
• Students reported the course skills were vital for advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs).

Conclusions:

• The geriatric pharmacotherapy course effectively adapted to PharmD students at various training levels.
• Innovative, active, and self-directed learning enhanced student engagement and learning outcomes.
• The course positively influenced students' perceptions of aging and geriatric care.