Training social work students to recognize later-life depression: Is standardized patient simulation effective?

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Social Work Education
• Mental Health Training

Background:

• Social workers are primary mental health providers but lack specialized training in late-life depression.
• Gerontology specialization is often required for adequate training in geriatric mental health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a Standardized Patient Simulation course for graduate social work students on late-life depression.
• To assess improvements in knowledge and clinical skill competency using simulation-based education.

Main Methods:

• 104 graduate social work students participated in a Standardized Patient Simulation course.
• The course included a human simulator interview, pre- and post-debriefing, and self/faculty ratings.
• Measures assessed knowledge and clinical skill competency before and after the simulation.

Main Results:

• Students demonstrated significant gains in knowledge regarding late-life depression.
• Clinical skill competency was achieved by the participating students.
• Students found the patient simulator realistic and were satisfied with the training experience.

Conclusions:

• Standardized Patient Simulation is an effective educational methodology for improving social work students' competency in addressing late-life depression.
• Simulation training provides valuable, practical experience and immediate feedback for skill development.
• This approach can enhance the preparedness of social workers in managing geriatric mental health issues.