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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Carla J. Herman, MD, MPH, Peg Allen, MPH, Christine Hayward, MPA, Lloryn Swan, BS, and Sandra Qaseem, MD. Geriatrics Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, 1720 Louisiana Blvd. NE, Suite 300, Albuquerque, NM 87110, 505-272-6082, cherman@salud.unm.edu

Background: The U.S. population of adults aged 65 years and older is projected to increase from 37 million in 2000 to 71 million in 2030. Healthcare of older people will require providers alert to specific needs of seniors.

Methods: We designed a voluntary pilot psychosocial program to pair active community-dwelling adults aged 65 and older with medical students. After an opening group event, pairs met every 4-6 weeks to develop a social relationship and discuss the senior's life history, healthcare perspectives and strategies for staying active despite chronic medical conditions. We obtained student feedback via a group interview plus written questionnaires while senior mentors completed individual in-person interviews. We then revised and expanded the program.

Results: Twelve medical students and 13 seniors aged 65-94 years participated in the pilot program in 2004-2005. Students were surprised at how active and articulate the seniors were and gave examples of changed perceptions about aging and intentions to continue the friendships beyond the program. Seniors expressed appreciation for friendship with a young person, enjoyment in sharing their perspectives, and new hope for future quality healthcare. Based on feedback, we added student discussion sessions to share program experiences, and more social events with students and seniors. Twenty-six first year medical students and physician assistant students, 8 second-year medical students, and 36 senior mentors volunteered in Fall 2005.

Conclusions: A voluntary program pairing active seniors with healthcare provider students is feasible to implement, attracted 29% of the incoming students and benefits both students and seniors.

Learning Objectives:

1.Describe the program design of one approach to help healthcare provider students become better prepared to provide care with older adults.
• List 5 benefits participating students experienced and 5 benefits seniors experienced.
• Discuss ways to get a similar program started in their community.

Keywords: Aging, Interactive Communication

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation