Geriatrics-gerontology training and negative stereotypes towards older adults among physiotherapy students in Chile:...

Ageism refers to the set of stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination based on age, which negatively affects healthcare for older adults. In Chile, there is limited evidence on this phenomenon among physiotherapy students.

To determine the presence of negative stereotypes towards older adults among physiotherapy students at a private university in the Valparaíso region, and to compare these stereotypes according to the level of knowledge in geriatrics and gerontology.

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an online survey of physiotherapy students. The Questionnaire of Negative Stereotypes Towards Ageing was administered, and knowledge in geriatrics and gerontology was assessed based on the completion of specific modules. Descriptive analyses, Student's t-test, and multiple linear regression adjusted for age and sex were performed.

A total of 96 students participated in the study. The average score for negative stereotypes towards ageing was 38.8 (SD = 5.8), classified as a low level, although it was close to the threshold for a high level. 42.7% of students presented high levels of negative stereotypes. Students who had passed both modules scored on average 4.3 points lower in negative stereotypes than those who had passed neither (95% CI: -7.4 to -1.3; p = 0.006).

Physiotherapy students exhibit negative stereotypes towards ageing, especially those without specific training in geriatrics and gerontology. Including these modules in professional education could contribute to improving future healthcare and reducing ageism towards older adults.