Students' perceptions of interprofessional education in geriatrics: A qualitative analysis

Interprofessional education (IPE) is critical for ensuring that students are prepared to collaborate with team members across disciplines once they enter clinical practice; particularly, in the complex care of the geriatric population. This qualitative study explored the experiences of interdisciplinary students in a clinical based IPE experience at a senior housing residence. Reflective journals were examined from students (n = 23) in nursing, social work, pharmacy, and medicine participating in an IPE program. Four core themes emerged in the analysis: exposure to geriatrics, IPE advantages for students, IPE advantages for older adults, and IPE challenges. Findings from this study confirmed advantages of IPE in a real-world clinical setting in terms of students learning the value and scope of practice of interdisciplinary team members. The exposure to geriatrics helped students to gain an in-depth understanding of issues affecting older adults in the community and increase professional confidence in their future clinical practice.