Clinical exercise physiology students learning with older adults: an innovative simulation-based education programme.

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Medical Education
• Gerontology

Background:

• Clinical exercise physiology students require practical experience with diverse patient populations.
• Older adults represent a growing demographic in primary healthcare settings.
• Simulation-based education offers a controlled environment for skill development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based placements for clinical exercise physiology students interacting with older adults.
• To enhance student confidence and competence in primary healthcare settings serving older populations.
• To explore the reciprocal benefits of student-older adult interactions.

Main Methods:

• A simulation-based education program involving clinical exercise physiology students and older adults.
• Semi-structured interviews with students, supervisors, and volunteer older adults.
• Analysis of student written reflection assignments using directed and conventional content analysis.

Main Results:

• Students reported increased confidence in communication and using professional tools.
• The experience fostered an understanding of professional identity development among students.
• Some students did not fully appreciate the importance of communication with older adults.
• Older adults enjoyed the interactions and gained insights into exercise physiology benefits.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based placements are effective in preparing clinical exercise physiology students to work with older adults.
• The program enhanced students' professional identity and communication skills, though further emphasis on communication is needed.
• Community engagement through such programs benefits both students and older adults, offering a model for healthcare worker training.