Perceptions and knowledge of older adults: An analysis of interprofessional education and medically underserved populations

ABSTRACT

This study explored an academic Interprofessional Geriatric Case Competition (IGCC) experience with a focus on medically underserved populations. Our aims were to assess: the perceptions of and knowledge of older adult populations; and the overall IPE (Interprofessional Education) experience of the IGCC participants. A multi-method study approach was used, the Facts on Aging Quiz assessed knowledge and the Carolina Opinions on Care of Older Adults (COCOA) assessed perceptions. A qualitative thematic approach was utilized to explore the themes of the IPE experience. There was a moderate correlation (0.37, p < .001) between perception and knowledge data of the respondents (N = 94), current professionals (54%) and enrolled students (46%). The three emerged themes were as follows: interprofessional/holistic practice; culturally responsive/older adult centered practice; and the impact of Covid-19. The implementation of IPE that centers medically underserved populations has the potential to: enhance students learning, influence the quality of care, and provide pathways to working within these specific populations.

KEYWORDS:

• Interprofessional education
• older adults
• medically underserved

Acknowledgments

The GWEP team thanks Dr. Janet Head and colleagues at A.T. Still University for consultation in the development of the Interprofessional Geriatric Case Competition. We also thank Kathleen Leonard for her help with coordination of the project. We are grateful to the Drs. Max Zubastsky, and John Morley for their support of the project.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Saint Louis University Office of the Vice President of Research; andsupported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number U1QHP28716 Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program for $750,000. This information and content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. government.