Aging with grace: Intraprofessional nursing simulation to improve Hawai'i's geriatrics workforce readiness

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Healthcare Education
• Nursing

Background:

• The US population aged 65+ is rapidly growing, projected to double by 2050.
• Hawaii has a higher percentage of kūpuna (older adults) and the highest life expectancy.
• A skilled healthcare workforce is crucial for geriatric care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the innovative
• Aging With Grace
• geriatrics curriculum.
• To improve geriatric care knowledge and competency.
• To foster intraprofessional collaboration and telehealth skills.

Main Methods:

• An evidence-based geriatrics curriculum, "Aging With Grace," was implemented.
• The curriculum focused on intraprofessional collaboration among nurse practitioner and registered nurse (RN) students.
• Learning activities included simulated patient care scenarios and telehealth training.

Main Results:

• The curriculum aimed to enhance knowledge and competency in caring for kūpuna.
• It provided a simulated environment for practicing complex geriatric care.
• It built competency in intraprofessional collaboration and telehealth.

Conclusions:

• The "Aging With Grace" curriculum effectively prepares healthcare professionals for geriatric care.
• It enhances skills in intraprofessional collaboration and telehealth.
• This initiative supports the growing need for specialized elder care.