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Sensitizing students to functional limitations in the elderly: an aging simulation
V Lorraine1, S Allen, A Lockett
1Department of Family and Community Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, USA. arl@fammed.evms.edu
Family Medicine
|February 14, 1998
Summary
This geriatrics clerkship uses an aging simulation to help medical students understand physical frailties and functional loss in the elderly. The exercise significantly improved students' attitudes toward older adults.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Geriatric Medicine
- Simulation-Based Learning
Background:
- Medical schools increasingly focus on geriatric education.
- Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are crucial for assessing elderly independence.
- A mandatory geriatrics clerkship requires innovative teaching methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an aging simulation exercise for fourth-year medical students.
- To enhance students' understanding of physical frailties associated with aging.
- To foster empathy and improve clinical approaches in geriatric care.
Main Methods:
- Students experienced simulated physical limitations using various devices.
- Participants performed ADLs and IADLs under simulated conditions.
- Four common geriatric diagnoses (Parkinson's, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, stroke) were simulated.
Main Results:
- The aging simulation was the highest-rated program in the clerkship.
- A statistically significant improvement in students' attitudes toward the elderly was observed post-simulation.
- Students reported enhanced understanding of functional loss and its impact.
Conclusions:
- Aging simulation is an effective tool for medical education in geriatrics.
- Experiential learning improves empathy and clinical skills for elderly care.
- Simulation fosters a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by older adults.