Students' dementia experience, knowledge, and concern: An opportunity for Age-Friendly University (AFU) programming

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Higher Education Studies
• Public Health

Background:

• The Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative promotes inclusivity for aging populations in higher education.
• There is a growing need to integrate dementia-friendly educational opportunities within AFU frameworks.
• Understanding student perspectives on dementia and Alzheimer's disease (D/AD) is crucial for developing targeted support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess undergraduate students' personal experiences, knowledge, and concerns regarding dementia and Alzheimer's disease (D/AD).
• To gauge student interest in dementia-friendly educational support within the university setting.
• To inform the development of age-friendly and dementia-friendly programs in higher education.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to undergraduate students across diverse academic disciplines.
• The survey collected data on personal experiences with D/AD, knowledge levels, concerns, and interest in educational support.
• A total of 106 students responded, yielding a 30% response rate.

Main Results:

• Over 50% of surveyed students reported personal experience with D/AD, often involving a grandparent.
• Students demonstrated low levels of knowledge about D/AD but expressed significant concern about developing the conditions.
• A notable interest in various dementia-focused educational activities was expressed by the student participants.

Conclusions:

• The findings underscore a clear need for dementia-friendly educational initiatives within Age-Friendly Universities.
• Higher education institutions should develop programs addressing student knowledge gaps and concerns about D/AD.
• Implementing dementia-friendly programs can provide essential information and support to students, aligning with AFU goals.