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Omaña H, Sureshkumar A, Äijö M, Hunter SW. Attitudes and Beliefs of Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Students Toward Working With Older Adults: A Systematic Review. Phys Ther 2024; 104:pzae052. [PMID: 38564242 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzae052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to systematically review physical therapists' and physical therapist students' attitudes toward working with older adults. METHODS CINAHL, EMBASE, ERIC, MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO, and SocIndex databases were searched in duplicate (from inception to March 2023). Studies that assessed knowledge on aging, intention to work with older adults or attitudes toward older adults for physical therapist students and/or clinicians, and that were written in English, Finnish, Spanish, or Swedish were included. Grey literature, qualitative studies, or articles of people with a specific diagnosis (eg, dementia) were excluded. All articles were reviewed by 2 authors independently, and consensus was required for inclusion. Data extraction was completed using a standardized data extraction sheet. RESULTS Of 2755 articles screened, 34 met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-five studies recruited only physical therapist students, 6 recruited only physical therapist clinicians, and 3 involved mixed samples of both. Ten intervention studies were included, all of which recruited physical therapist students. Overall, physical therapist students were observed to have predominantly positive attitudes toward older adults, while clinicians had neutral to weak positive attitudes toward older adults. Both physical therapist students and clinicians were observed to have low knowledge on aging and low intentions to work with older adults. Results from intervention studies suggest that education combined with clinical experience with older adults improves attitudes toward older adults. CONCLUSION A discrepancy is observed in physical therapists in that although attitudes toward older adults are positive, a lack of knowledge on aging and a disinterest in working with older adults exists. Intervention studies suggest that clinical experience may improve attitudes toward older adults in physical therapist students. IMPACT Predominantly positive attitudes toward older adults are reported by physical therapist students, while for clinicians mixed results are observed. Education coupled with clinical experiences appears to be effective interventions to improve attitudes toward older adults, but such research has only been explored in student samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humberto Omaña
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | | | - Marja Äijö
- School of Health Care, Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Susan W Hunter
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
- School of Physical Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Abuawad M, Rjoub A, Dumaidi Y, Daraghma M, Ghanim M, Rabayaa M, Amer J. Evaluation of knowledge and attitudes regarding Alzheimer's disease and related dementia among medical students in Palestine: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304012. [PMID: 38758934 PMCID: PMC11101103 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dementia, a major global health concern, is an acquired disorder that causes a progressive decline in cognitive abilities, affecting learning and memory, language, executive function, complex attention, perceptual-motor skills, and social cognition. Our study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes regarding dementia and Alzheimer's disease among medical students. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted among 393 medical students in Palestine from August 2023 to November 2023. The assessment of knowledge and attitude toward dementia was measured using the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) and Dementia Attitude Scale (DAS). The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, and the Mann-Whitney U-test and the Kruskal-Wallis test were used to compare the mean between the groups with a 5% significance level. RESULTS The overall mean score of the student's knowledge of dementia measured by the ADKS was 18.91 (±3.32 SD) out of 30. The mean score of the student's attitude toward dementia measured by the DAS was 91.68 (±3.32 SD). Clinical students had higher ADKS scores than pre-clinical students (p-value < 0.001). No significant differences in the knowledge and attitudes toward dementia were found between males and females. The medical students' knowledge and attitude scores were positively correlated (ρ = 0.227, p-value <0.001). CONCLUSION Palestinian medical student's knowledge about Alzheimer's disease and dementia is insufficient, with students in the clinical phase showing better understanding than pre-clinical students. The findings highlight a necessity for enhancing the dementia curriculum and conducting further studies to evaluate training's impact on students' knowledge and attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Abuawad
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Ahmad Rjoub
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Yazan Dumaidi
- Intern Medical Doctor, Rafeedia Surgical Hospital, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghma
- Faculty of Medicine, Research and Teaching Assistant, Arab American University, Jenin, Palestine
| | - Mustafa Ghanim
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Maha Rabayaa
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Johnny Amer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Allied and Applied Medical Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
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Błaszkiewicz M, Szcześniak D, Ciułkowicz M, Kowalski K, Rymaszewska JE, Bartosz B, Bulińska K, Karczewski M, Brodaty H, Rymaszewska J. Biomedical knowledge of dementia is not enough to counteract its stigma - quantitative research among future medical and social care staff in Poland. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38407168 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2320139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim is to assess the level of stigmatization and knowledge of dementia among university students of medical, rehabilitation and social faculties in Poland. Possible correlates of these concepts and group differences are also investigated. METHODS We applied quantitative methods using an online questionnaire comprising sociodemographics, the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale, a vignette of a person with dementia and the modified Family Stigma in Alzheimer's Disease Scale. RESULTS Students had low levels of dementia knowledge and moderate levels of stigma. Medical science students had significantly better knowledge than the other groups but did not differ in their level of stigma. Relationships between the main variables were complex. Emotional and cognitive stigmatizing attributions were negatively correlated with knowledge about communication and behaviors of people with dementia. Better knowledge on causes and characteristics, as well as on risks and health promotion of the disease also triggered fewer negative attributions toward people with dementia. CONCLUSIONS If health-related programs are to be effective, they should provide opportunities for the acquisition of relevant knowledge and skills that also address the stigmatization of people living with dementia. Well-established biomedical knowledge on dementia must be supplemented with a person-centered approach and proper communication skills.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dorota Szcześniak
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Marta Ciułkowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Julia E Rymaszewska
- Department and Clinic of Dermatology, Allergology and Venerology, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Bogna Bartosz
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wroclaw, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Bulińska
- Department of Physiotherapy, Wrocław University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Maciej Karczewski
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Henry Brodaty
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanna Rymaszewska
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
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Warren A. Can a translational science approach change the dementia narrative in medical education? FRONTIERS IN DEMENTIA 2023; 2:1288817. [PMID: 39081977 PMCID: PMC11285690 DOI: 10.3389/frdem.2023.1288817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Warren
- The Department of Clinical Research and Leadership, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
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Korkmaz Aslan G, Kılınç İşleyen E, Kartal A. Nursing students' knowledge and attitudes about dementia: A cross-sectional study. Nurse Educ Pract 2023; 72:103800. [PMID: 37832373 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2023.103800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to determine knowledge and attitudes of nursing students about dementia and factors affecting them. BACKGROUND With the increased aging population in the world including Turkiye, the prevalence of dementia is on the rise. Nursing students must have knowledge of dementia to offer high-quality, evidence-based nursing care to people who have dementia. Nursing students' attitudes towards dementia directly affect the quality of the care that they give. A positive attitude contributes to provision of more empathetic and personalized care for people with dementia. DESIGN A cross-sectional design. METHOD The study was performed with 784 nursing students at six universities in Turkiye. Data were collected using a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale and the Dementia Attitudes Scale. Data were analyzed using an independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA and multiple linear regression analysis. Factors predicting knowledge and attitudes about dementia were examined using multiple linear regression analysis. RESULTS The mean age of the nursing students was 20.37 ± 1.85 years. Of all the nursing students, 82.9% were female, 15.1% were living with an older person, 5.5% had a family member with dementia, 9.8% had prior experience with dementia care and 19.4% received education about dementia. The students had inadequate knowledge of dementia (13.01 ± 6.66 out of 34), but a moderately positive attitude towards dementia (82.53 ± 12.44). Female gender (β = 0.087), increased year of study (β = 0.346), living in the city center (β = 0.070), having a family member with dementia (β = -0.081) and receiving education about dementia (β = 0.103) had a positive effect on the knowledge about dementia. Knowledge of dementia (β = 0.226), living in a city (β = 2.371) and prior experience in dementia care (β = 0.097) positively affected the attitudes about dementia. CONCLUSION Findings of the study suggest that curricula of undergraduate nursing education in Turkiyeshould be improved. Positive effects of education about dementia and clinical experience on knowledge and attitudes regarding dementia reveal a need for a change in the duration and quality of education about dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülbahar Korkmaz Aslan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health Nursing Department, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkiye..
| | - Eda Kılınç İşleyen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health Nursing Department, Uşak University, Uşak, Turkiye..
| | - Asiye Kartal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health Nursing Department, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkiye..
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Nojomi M, Goharinezhad S, Saraei R, Goharinejad S, Ramezani G, Aalaa M. Exploring the attitudes of general medical students toward older adult's care in a lower middle-income country: implications for medical education. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:649. [PMID: 37684593 PMCID: PMC10492309 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04626-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The motivation for this study stemmed from the growing population of older adults and the increasing demand for healthcare professionals who possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality care to this demographic. By exploring the attitudes, perceptions, and beliefs of medical students towards older adult care, the study aimed to identify gaps in their training and areas where improvements can be made to better equip them for this critical aspect of healthcare. METHOD This study was a qualitative thematic analysis. The participants of this research were selected from among the general medicine internship students of Iran University of Medical Sciences by purposive sampling method. In-depth individual semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Sampling continued until data saturation. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a hybrid approach of inductive and deductive thematic analysis. Using this approach, the analysis of the data became more adaptable and open-ended, free from the restrictions of pre-existing theoretical frameworks. MAXQDA 22 was used to analyze qualitative data. RESULTS A total of 27 medical students were interviewed semi-structured, and audio files were transcribed immediately after the interview. In the process of reading the interviews carefully and separating the conceptual units into codes, 167 primary codes were obtained, and these codes were divided into five main categories under the title of root factors after constant comparison analysis. Five main themes are including discrimination in service delivery, a lack of inter-professional training, interpersonal communication skills, inadequate infrastructure and human resources, and enhancing attitudes towards older person care through experiential learning. CONCLUSION This study sheds light on the attitudes and perceptions of medical students toward older adult care in a lower-middle-income country. The findings reveal that there are significant gaps in their training and preparation for providing quality care to this demographic profile. The four main categories identified as root factors highlight key areas where improvements can be made in medical education. It is recommended that medical schools in low and middle-income countries consider incorporating these themes into their curricula to better equip future healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality care to older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Nojomi
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Department of Community and Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Salime Goharinezhad
- Department of Health Services Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Rasoul Saraei
- Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeideh Goharinejad
- Faculty of Healthcare Science, Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Pfarrkirchen, Germany
| | - Ghobad Ramezani
- Education Development Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Center for Educational Research in Medical Sciences (CERMS), Department of Medical Education, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Aalaa
- Department of e-Learning in Medical Education, Center of Excellence for e-Learning in Medical Education, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Bard JT, Chung HK, Shaia JK, Wellman LL, Elzie CA. Increased medical student understanding of dementia through virtual embodiment. GERONTOLOGY & GERIATRICS EDUCATION 2023; 44:211-222. [PMID: 35451921 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2022.2067850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Given the growing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD), we assessed the impact of virtually embodying someone with progressive AD. This pilot explored students' understanding of individuals' needs with dementia, as well as, the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) as a curricular tool. Second-year medical students (n = 150) completed a pre-survey, Embodied Labs, Inc. Beatriz Lab VR module, and a post-survey. Most students knew someone with dementia (72%), were a family member of someone with dementia (52%) or had worked with a patient (61%) with dementia. Using paired survey questions, students reported significant increases in understanding how their lives would be affected by dementia (71% vs. 94%) and the needs of a person with dementia (64% vs. 95%) after VR. They reported increased understanding of being a caregiver of someone with dementia (24% vs. 81%) and the impact it can have on the entire family (64% vs. 97%). Overall students agreed this simulation made them think about their approach to clinical skills (94%) and should be utilized more in the curriculum (76%). This pilot study indicated that this VR experience can be used to advance understanding of a person's experiences with dementia and that integrating VR into the medical curricula should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason T Bard
- Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Hannah K Chung
- Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Jacqueline K Shaia
- Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Laurie L Wellman
- Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Carrie A Elzie
- Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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Dong A, Gong G, Reifsnider E, Huang S, Zhang Z, Mao J. Knowledge and Attitudes toward Dementia among Undergraduate Health Professional Students in China: A Cross-Sectional Survey. TEACHING AND LEARNING IN MEDICINE 2022; 34:455-463. [PMID: 34565245 DOI: 10.1080/10401334.2021.1971988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
PhenomenonDementia is a huge burden to the economic and health care system in China. As the next generation of health care providers, undergraduate health professional students play a pivotal role in caring for dementia patients during their clinical placements and in independent practice. Nevertheless, they may not be adequately prepared to care for patients with dementia by their undergraduate programs. Measuring the knowledge and attitudes of health professional students could be an important step in providing evidence regarding the need to enhance dementia care training in the curriculum. Approach: Responses from 325 Chinese health professional (nursing, medical, and public health) students were included in the analyses. After providing informed consent, students answered questionnaires including a demographic data questionnaire, the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) and the Dementia Attitudes Scale (DAS). Univariate analyses were performed to test the association between outcomes and potential explanatory variables. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the predictive factors for knowledge and attitudes toward dementia. Findings: Chinese health professional students had a mean ADKS score of 18.92 (SD = 3.20). Better knowledge was associated with advanced education, having family members with medical knowledge, having heard of dementia, and having interest in learning about dementia. Students had a mean DAS score of 89.10 (SD = 8.93), and their attitudes were significantly associated with majoring in public health and having heard of dementia. Students' knowledge was positively, but weakly related with attitudes (r = 0.122, P = 0.028). Insights: Chinese undergraduate health professional students demonstrate insufficient knowledge and less positive attitudes toward dementia than their counterparts in developed countries. Enhanced dementia care-specific curriculum and training are urgently needed in China to meet the growing demand for dementia care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anhong Dong
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guilan Gong
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Elizabeth Reifsnider
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, USA
| | - Sha Huang
- Social Welfare Institute in Qingshan District of Wuhan, Wuhan, China
| | - Zeyu Zhang
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Mao
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Aging is inevitable, nihilism is optional. Int Psychogeriatr 2022; 34:761-763. [PMID: 36008365 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610222000345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Castellano-Rioja E, Botella-Navas M, López-Hernández L, Martínez-Arnau FM, Pérez-Ros P. Caring for the Elderly Enhances Positive Attitudes Better Than Knowledge in Nursing Students. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58091201. [PMID: 36143876 PMCID: PMC9506512 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58091201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: There is a growing interest in the measurement of attitudes towards older people in healthcare professionals, as there is a need to implement interventions to improve ageist attitudes. A one group pretest–posttest study was carried out to explore the change in nursing student attitudes towards the elderly during their university careers. Materials and Method: A total of 97 nursing students were enrolled. Attitudes were analyzed using Kogan’s Attitudes Toward Old People Scale. Results: The attitude was positive from the beginning of the study, with a score of 110.06 (12.92). No differences were observed after completing the subject “Care of the elderly” (106.21 (10.77)), though a significant increase was recorded after the completion of clinical placement (142.88 (12.64)), with a large effect size (η2p = 0.754). The score of the positive items was significantly increased, but not that of the negative items, as ageist attitude was not reduced. Conclusion: The current curricular design, that includes taking the theoretical course before clinical placement in the geriatric area, increases positive attitudes in nursing students but does not reduce ageist attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Castellano-Rioja
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46007 Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Botella-Navas
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46007 Valencia, Spain
| | - Lourdes López-Hernández
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46007 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Miguel Martínez-Arnau
- Department of Physiotherapy, Universitat de València, 46010—Gascó Oliag 5, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Frailty and Cognitive Impairment Research Group (FROG), Universitat de València, Menendez y Pelayo 19, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Pilar Pérez-Ros
- Frailty and Cognitive Impairment Research Group (FROG), Universitat de València, Menendez y Pelayo 19, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Podiatry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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Abdalrahim A, ALBashtawy M, Alkhawaldeh A, Al-Amer RM, Bani Salameh A, ALBashtawy S, Abu Khait A, ALBashtawy Z. An analysis of nursing and medical students' attitudes towards and knowledge of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Int J Nurs Educ Scholarsh 2022; 19:ijnes-2022-0033. [PMID: 35951777 DOI: 10.1515/ijnes-2022-0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Little is known about how Jordanian undergraduate medical and nursing students perceive Alzheimer's disease (AD) care. This study aimed to investigate nursing and medical students' AD knowledge, attitudes, and associated factors with their knowledge to inform reforms to multidisciplinary AD education undergraduate programs in Jordan. METHODS Cross-sectional research was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire. Students' knowledge was measured using the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) and attitudes were measured using the Dementia Care Attitude Scale (DCAS). The survey was completed by 423 nursing and medical students. RESULTS The overall mean score on the ADKS for students' AD knowledge was 17.50 (SD=3.08) out of 30 and the DCAS for students' attitudes toward AD was 26.76 (SD=6.19) out of 40. CONCLUSIONS Medical students had a higher level of AD knowledge and a lower level of positive attitude than nursing students (p<0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Asem Abdalrahim
- Department of Community and Mental Health, Princess Salma Faculty of Nursing, AL al-Bayt University, Mafraq, Jordan
| | - Mohammed ALBashtawy
- Department of Community and Mental Health, Princess Salma Faculty of Nursing, AL al-Bayt University, Mafraq, Jordan
| | - Abdullah Alkhawaldeh
- Department of Community and Mental Health, Princess Salma Faculty of Nursing, AL al-Bayt University, Mafraq, Jordan
| | - Rasmieh M Al-Amer
- Department of Psychiatric Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Isra University, Amman, Jordan.,Western Sydney University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ahmad Bani Salameh
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care and Pain Management, Jordanian Royal Medical Services: Amman, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Abdallah Abu Khait
- Department of Community and Mental Health, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
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Stojic J, Petrosanec M, Milosevic M, Boban M. The attitude and knowledge of medical students regarding dementia. Acta Neurol Belg 2022; 122:625-630. [PMID: 35429287 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-022-01939-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Due to the growing number of older people with dementia (PWD) worldwide, there is an urgent need to improve undergraduate medical education on dementia and skills of future health professionals to provide the best quality care for PWD. The study aimed to determine attitudes and knowledge regarding dementia among medical students. METHODS This cross-sectional, survey-based study included 231 final-year medical students who completed the paper-and-pencil questionnaire with seven categories of questions including two dementia knowledge tests. RESULTS Students have relatively neutral attitudes towards working with PWD and a rather poor theoretical knowledge in the dementia knowledge exam. Students showed the best theoretical knowledge about the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, while their knowledge was poor in the field of differential diagnoses, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. One in 11 sixth-year medical students has never had contact with a person with dementia. The opinion of most students was that they should have spent more time with PWD during their medical education and that there are too few classes in the field of dementia at the School of Medicine. The dementia knowledge test with 23 Multiple-Choice Questions showed a higher internal consistency compared to the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale. CONCLUSION There is an urgent need to increase the interest and improve attitudes and knowledge towards dementia for all future health care professionals from the earliest student days to provide the best care for PWD.
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Martínez-Arnau FM, López-Hernández L, Castellano-Rioja E, Botella-Navas M, Pérez-Ros P. Interventions to improve attitudes toward older people in undergraduate health and social sciences students. A systematic review and meta-analysis. NURSE EDUCATION TODAY 2022; 110:105269. [PMID: 35063781 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2022.105269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine which interventions are the most effective in improving attitudes toward older persons in undergraduate health and social sciences students. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES A literature search was made in PubMed, EBSCO and SCOPUS and additional records were identified by manual searching. The selection criteria were studies that evaluated an intervention designed to improve positive attitudes; studies in undergraduate health and social sciences students; and studies using direct instruments to measure attitudes. REVIEW METHODS Two independent reviewers extracted study-level data from records using a common data collection spreadsheet. Two reviewers also assessed study quality by using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. The primary outcome was the effect of an intervention upon attitudes toward older people, while the secondary outcome was the effect upon knowledge about aging and older people in those studies that had previously assessed subject attitude. The meta-analysis was carried out based on mixed statistical models. RESULTS The search identified 53 eligible studies published during 1982-2020, comprising 35 pre-post studies and 18 randomized clinical trials, of which 14 were included in the meta-analysis. A strongly significant effect upon attitudes was observed for empathy-based interventions (differences of standardized mean differences (dSMD) = 1.26; 95%CI: 0.04-2.48; p = 0.04), knowledge + empathy-based interventions (dSMD = 0.22; 95%CI: 0.05-0.39; p = 0.01), and knowledge + clinical skills-based interventions (dSMD = 0.22; 95%CI: 0.01-0.43; p = 0.04). The overall effect was dSMD = 0.50; 95%CI: 0.01-0.43; p = 0.004. In addition, a positive effect in terms of increased knowledge about the older was observed after knowledge + empathy-based and knowledge + clinical skills-based interventions (dSMD = 0.24; 95%CI: 0.07-0.40; p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Interventions to improve attitudes in health and social sciences students are effective, with those based on empathy having the greatest impact. Improving attitudes among future professionals could improve the management and quality of care of older people. More rigorous and better designed studies are recommended to determine the effect of the interventions. Registered on PROSPERO ID: CRD42021220677. TWITTABLE ABSTRACT Ageism is present in healthcare settings. Empathy-based interventions are the most effective strategies in health and social sciences students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Miguel Martínez-Arnau
- Department of Physiotherapy, Universitat de València, Gascó Oliag 5, 46010, Valencia, Spain; Frailty and Cognitive Impairment Research Group (FROG), Universitat de València, Menéndez i Pelayo 19, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Lourdes López-Hernández
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Espartero 7, 46007, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Elena Castellano-Rioja
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Espartero 7, 46007, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Marta Botella-Navas
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Espartero 7, 46007, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Pilar Pérez-Ros
- Frailty and Cognitive Impairment Research Group (FROG), Universitat de València, Menéndez i Pelayo 19, 46010, Valencia, Spain; Department of Nursing, Universitat de València, Menéndez i Pelayo 19, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
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Scott H. The changing self: The impact of dementia on the personal and social identity of women (findings from the Improving the Experience of Dementia and Enhancing Active Life programme). DEMENTIA 2021; 21:503-518. [PMID: 34636699 PMCID: PMC8811322 DOI: 10.1177/14713012211047351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper explores the impact of dementia on the selfhood of women, specifically the ways in which changes occur as a result of such a diagnosis. Interviews were conducted with 12 women (recruited from the Improving the Experience of Dementia and Enhancing Active Life programme dataset), and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Emergent themes concerned the process of receiving and adjusting to a dementia diagnosis, the emotional and psychological impact of dementia, self-presentation and stigma and the self-enforcement of new boundaries. The analysis showed that dementia had a wide-ranging impact on the selfhood and identity of women, with newfound characteristics associated with the disease leading to a loss of self-esteem, sadness and anger. The women subsequently engaged in the modification of their behaviour, as a means of coming to terms with the losses experienced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Scott
- School of Clinical Medicine, 2152University of Cambridge, England
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15
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Dahlke S, Hunter KF. Harnessing nursing to diminish ageism. Int J Older People Nurs 2021; 17:e12417. [PMID: 34420260 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The common practice of making fun of aging and older people demonstrates that ageism towards older people is socially acceptable. It is so accepted that even those of us who are aging or have moved into the 'third act' believe and fear the negative stereotypes that growing old is linked with physical and mental deterioration, dependence, and less social value. Ageism is evident in work places, family relationships, when older people purchase goods and services, in health and social institutions and extends throughout professions that work with older people. OBJECTIVES We explore how nurses-the largest group of healthcare professions- may be inadvertently perpetuating negative perceptions about older people in nursing practice, nursing education, and through common misconceptions about what gerontological nursing means. METHODS This is discussion paper using the literature. RESULTS We suggest that nursing education is well situated to diminish negative perspectives of ageing by incorporating theories of life-course and harmonious aging into the holistic perspective of individuals that nursing is well known for. CONCLUSIONS Greater understanding about the diversity of ageing and the context that have influenced older persons could encourage nurses to treat them holistically with dignity, which would ultimately improve older people's experiences. Improving older persons' experiences is like paying it forward, as we all are ageing and if we are to have a different experience when we are old, it is necessary to diminish stereotypes about ageing, and work towards inclusion of older people in social and healthcare institutions. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE It is important for nurses, particularly those in nursing education, to support the incorporation of a life course and harmonious view of aging in which the social, political, and environmental context of individuals are viewed as part of the difference of ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherry Dahlke
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, USA
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16
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Williams M, Daley S. Innovation in dementia education within undergraduate healthcare programmes: A scoping review. NURSE EDUCATION TODAY 2021; 98:104742. [PMID: 33545558 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2020.104742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The increase in the number of people living with dementia has resulted in a greater need for healthcare professionals from all disciplines to meet the needs of those living with the condition. This means a workforce which is competent in delivering dementia care which is person-centred, regardless clinical specialism. The aim of scoping review is to provide an overview of the novel education models being used to ensure the future healthcare workforce are able to meet this aspiration. DATA SOURCES Online databases PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Medline, PsychInfo, ERIC were used. REVIEW METHODS Search terms 'Healthcare Student(s)', 'Dementia or Alzheimer's Education' were used. Inclusion criteria included papers published in English between 2009 and September 2019, with data pertaining to the assessment of dementia knowledge and attitudes among healthcare students. Abstracts were reviewed and identified for inclusion for full-text review. Included studies were assessed using the MMAT (Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool). RESULTS 27 studies were included within the review. These were groups into five educational categories; long term experiential (n=5), activity-centered programmes with people with dementia (n=11), interprofessional education (IPE) (n=5), immersive conference style programmes (n=3) and dementia simulation (n=3). Long term experiential and activity centered programmes gave students the greatest increase in perceived confidence, and improvement in dementia attitudes. Programmes were most effective when directly involving people living with dementia. CONCLUSION The majority of the education programmes showed a potential benefit in improving either knowledge, confidence, attitude, or all three among healthcare students. This highlights the benefit that novel experiential programmes may have in aiding a culture of positive attitudes among future healthcare professionals who will be treating people with dementia. This review also demonstrates the positive benefit that directly involving people living with dementia within education can have on both student learners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Williams
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Trafford Centre for Medical Research, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9RY, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie Daley
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Trafford Centre for Medical Research, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9RY, United Kingdom.
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17
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Oh C, Morris RJ. Attitudes toward people with dementia among communication science and disorders students. GERONTOLOGY & GERIATRICS EDUCATION 2021; 42:96-113. [PMID: 33138733 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2020.1842393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to: 1) explore attitudes among Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) students toward people with dementia, 2) investigate factors that might be associated with the expressed attitudes, and 3) suggest a means for promoting positive attitudes among CSD students. 94 CSD students completed a three-section online survey via Qualtrics. First, participants provided demographic information in three categories: person, courses, and experiences. Second, they completed a 25-item quiz on aging and dementia. Finally, each participant submitted responses to the Scale of Attitude toward People with Dementia. A stepwise regression analysis revealed two factors that best predicted positive attitudes of participants toward people with dementia. The first factor was having completed more courses on gerontology and/or dementia and the second factor was having found the courses beneficial for their future career as speech-language pathologists. The findings of this study imply that providing CSD students with more courses in gerontology and/or dementia may foster more positive attitudes toward people with dementia. These findings indicate that maximum benefit may be achieved by designing courses on gerontology and dementia that include professional practice-oriented activities and assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chorong Oh
- School of Rehabilitation and Communication Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Richard J Morris
- School of Communication Science and Disorders, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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18
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Lawler K, Kitsos A, Bindoff AD, Callisaya ML, Eccleston CEA, Doherty KV. Room for improvement: An online survey of allied health professionals' dementia knowledge. Australas J Ageing 2020; 40:195-201. [PMID: 33295077 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the dementia knowledge of allied health professionals and identify their specific learning needs. METHODS An online survey was conducted with allied health professionals enrolled in the Understanding Dementia Massive Open Online Course, a free course open to anyone, worldwide. The primary outcome measure was the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale, assessed prior to course commencement. RESULTS The survey was completed by 1591 participants. The mean dementia knowledge score was 35.0 (SD 8.4), with 13% (n = 207) achieving a target score of 45/50 or above, indicating comprehensive dementia knowledge. Key knowledge gaps were in the areas of dementia onset and non-pharmacological management of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. CONCLUSIONS Allied health professionals surveyed had significant gaps in dementia knowledge. Educators planning dementia curriculum for allied health professionals could consider addressing areas of knowledge related to the identified items, with view to providing a foundation for excellence in dementia care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Lawler
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Alex Kitsos
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Aidan D Bindoff
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Michele L Callisaya
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.,Peninsula Clinical School, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claire E A Eccleston
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Kathleen V Doherty
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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19
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Mitchell G, McTurk V, Carter G, Brown-Wilson C. Emphasise capability, not disability: exploring public perceptions, facilitators and barriers to living well with dementia in Northern Ireland. BMC Geriatr 2020; 20:525. [PMID: 33272207 PMCID: PMC7713159 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-020-01933-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Improving public knowledge and understanding about dementia has been identified as a priority area by people living with the condition, researchers, educators, and policymakers for several years. Societies that have a better understanding of the condition are more likely to enable people living with dementia to enjoy a better quality of life. The aim of this study was to explore current public perceptions of dementia along with the facilitators and barriers to living well from the perspective of people living with the condition in Northern Ireland. Methods Four focus group interviews were conducted with a total of 20 people living with dementia across three Northern Irish Counties in June 2019. These interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Ethical approval was obtained for this study prior to data collection. Findings Following thematic analysis, three themes emerged in relation to barriers and facilitators to living well with dementia. These were: ‘Emphasis on Disability NOT Capability’, which highlighted societal misconceptions about the activities and modes of life which people with dementia could or could not do; ‘Normalise Dementia – We Don’t Want a Fool’s Pardon’, which focused on how the public could encourage people living with the condition to enjoy greater independence, and ‘Dementia isn’t a Death Sentence’, which considered how professionals, family members and friends treated the person after diagnosis. Conclusions Public perceptions about dementia have the potential to act as both facilitators and barriers to living well with dementia. People with dementia stated that they are more likely sustain wellbeing when they are valued and can maintain independence. On the contrary, poor public and professional attitudes to dementia had the potential to disempower people living with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Mitchell
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL.
| | - Victoria McTurk
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL
| | - Gillian Carter
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL
| | - Christine Brown-Wilson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL
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20
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Wang Y, Xiao LD, Huang R. A comparative study of dementia knowledge, attitudes and care approach among Chinese nursing and medical students. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2020; 20:436. [PMID: 33198736 PMCID: PMC7670709 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-020-02365-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia care requires inter-disciplinary collaboration starting from formal health professional education. Yet, little is known about how undergraduate medical and nursing students perceive dementia care in China. The aim of this study was to investigate undergraduate medical and nursing students' dementia knowledge, attitudes and care approach in China. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted. Students enrolled in a 5-year Bachelor of Medicine Program and a 4-year Bachelor of Nursing Program from four universities with campuses across Eastern, Western, Southern and Northern China were recruited into the study. Three validated instruments, Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS), Dementia Care Attitude Scale (DCAS) and Approach to Advanced Dementia Care Questionnaire (ADCQ), were used to examine students' dementia knowledge, attitudes and perceived care approach. Data were collected using a self-administered survey. RESULTS The number of medical and nursing students completing the survey was 526 and 467 respectively. Students' overall knowledge about dementia was poor, but attitudes were generally positive. The overall mean score of students' dementia knowledge examined by the ADKS was 19.49 (SD = 2.82) out of 30, students' attitudes to dementia was 29.92(SD = 3.35) out of 40, and students' person-centred care approach of dementia was 5.42 (SD = 2.20) out of 13. Medical students demonstrated higher dementia knowledge scores and showed less positive attitude scores than nursing students (p < 0.05). Students would not apply a person-centred care approach. There were no statistically significant differences in the mean scores of ADCQ between nursing students and medical students. CONCLUSIONS Study results highlight the urgent need to implement an inter-disciplinary approach to increasing dementia education among Chinese medical and nursing students, and ensuring that students have adequate knowledge, attitudes and experience in the care of people with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province China
| | - Lily Dongxia Xiao
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province China
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
| | - Rong Huang
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province China
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
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21
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Padala KP, Mendiratta P, Orr LC, Dean KT, Boozer EM, Lensing SY, Wei JY, Sullivan DH, Padala PR. An Interdisciplinary Approach to Educating Medical Students About Dementia Assessment and Treatment Planning. Fed Pract 2020; 37:466-471. [PMID: 33132685 DOI: 10.12788/fp.0052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Many general practitioners consider dementia care beyond their clinical domain and feel that dementia assessment and treatment should be addressed by specialists, such as geriatricians, geriatric psychiatrists, or neurologists. An urgent need exists to educate all medical trainees in dementia care, regardless of their specialization interests. Observations We developed a multicomponent, experiential, brief curriculum using team-based learning to expose senior medical students who rotated through the US Department of Veterans Affairs Memory Disorders Clinic at the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock to an interdisciplinary assessment of dementia. The curriculum included didactics, clinical experience, and team-based learning. In pre- and postevaluation, students rated their perception of the role of interdisciplinary team members in assessing and managing dementia, their personal abilities to assess cognition, behavioral problems, caregiver burden, and their perception of the impact of behavioral problems on dementia care. Conclusions Dementia knowledge gaps were prevalent in this cohort of senior medical students. Providing interdisciplinary geriatric educational experience improved students perception of their ability to assess for dementia and their recognition of the roles of interdisciplinary team members. Plans are in place to continue and expand the program to other complex geriatric syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalpana P Padala
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
| | - Priya Mendiratta
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
| | - L Casey Orr
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
| | - Kim T Dean
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
| | - Eugenia M Boozer
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
| | - Shelly Y Lensing
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
| | - Jeanne Y Wei
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
| | - Dennis H Sullivan
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
| | - Prasad R Padala
- is Associate Director for Clinical Research; and are Health Science Specialists; is a Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow; is a Biostatistician; is Director; and is Associate Director for Clinical Programs; all at the Geriatric Research Education, and Clinical Center at Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. , Dennis Sullivan, and Prasad Padala are Professors; is Professor and Chair; and Kalpana Padala is Associate Professor; all in the Departments of Geriatrics and Psychiatry; Shelly Lensing is a Biostatistician; all at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock
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Casey AN, Islam MM, Schütze H, Parkinson A, Yen L, Shell A, Winbolt M, Brodaty H. GP awareness, practice, knowledge and confidence: evaluation of the first nation-wide dementia-focused continuing medical education program in Australia. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2020; 21:104. [PMID: 32522153 PMCID: PMC7285709 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01178-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Dementia is under-diagnosed in primary care. Timely diagnosis and care management improve outcomes for patients and caregivers. This research evaluated the effectiveness of a nationwide Continuing Medical Education (CME) program to enhance dementia-related awareness, practice, knowledge and confidence of general practitioners (GPs) in Australia. Methods Data were collected from self-report surveys by GPs who participated in an accredited CME program face-to-face or online; program evaluations from GPs; and process evaluations from workshop facilitators. CME participants completed surveys at one or more time-points (pre-, post-program, six to 9 months follow-up) between 2015 and 2017. Paired samples t-test was used to determine difference in mean outcome scores (self-reported change in awareness, knowledge, confidence, practice) between time-points. Multivariable regression analyses were used to investigate associations between respondent characteristics and key variables. Qualitative feedback was analysed thematically. Results Of 1352 GPs who completed a survey at one or more time-points (pre: 1303; post: 1017; follow-up: 138), mean scores increased between pre-CME and post-program for awareness (Mpost-pre = 0.9, p < 0.0005), practice-related items (Mpost-pre = 1.3, p < 0.0005), knowledge (Mpost-pre = 2.2, p < 0.0005), confidence (Mpost-pre = 2.1, p < 0.0005). Significant increases were seen in all four outcomes for GPs who completed these surveys at both pre- and follow-up time-points. Male participants and those who had practised for five or more years showed greater change in knowledge and confidence. Age, years in practice, and education delivery method significantly predicted post-program knowledge and confidence. Most respondents who completed additional program evaluations (> 90%) rated the training as relevant to their practice. These participants, and facilitators who completed process evaluations, suggested adding more content addressing patient capacity and legal issues, locality-specific specialist and support services, case studies and videos to illustrate concepts. Conclusions The sustainability of change in key elements relating to health professionals’ dementia awareness, knowledge and confidence indicated that dementia CME programs may contribute to improving capacity to provide timely dementia diagnosis and management in general practice. Low follow-up response rates warrant cautious interpretation of results. Dementia CME should be adopted in other contexts and updated as more research becomes available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Nicole Casey
- Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, AGSM Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.,Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - M Mofizul Islam
- Department of Public Health, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Heike Schütze
- School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.,School of Public Health and Community Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Anne Parkinson
- Department of Health Services Research & Policy, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, NSW, 2601, Australia
| | - Laurann Yen
- Department of Health Services Research & Policy, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, NSW, 2601, Australia
| | - Allan Shell
- Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, AGSM Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Margaret Winbolt
- Dementia Training Australia, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Henry Brodaty
- Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, AGSM Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia. .,Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia. .,Academic Department for Old Age Psychiatry, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia.
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