Learning to nurse the elderly: outcome measures

This study explores the impact of a planned learning experience with the elderly on BScN students' level of knowledge about aging. Data were gathered by means of Palmore's 'Facts on Aging Quiz', an instrument which has been validated as a measure of knowledge. Findings revealed that a learning experience requiring that students have contact and planned experience with essentially well older people who were living and functioning relatively independently was effective in increasing their level of knowledge about aging as well as lessening negative stereotypes associated with the aged.