Improving Medical Students' Attitudes Toward and Skills with the Elderly

This study examined the effect of an experimental program in gerontology and geriatrics on the knowledge, attitudes, and interview skill behaviors of third-year medical students. Experimental group members (n = 45; controls n = 51) participated in four 90-minute group sessions that emphasized psychological, sociodemographic, and physiological aspects of aging and interpersonal communication skills. Program participants developed more positive attitudes and demonstrated more socially skilled behavior during an interview with an older adult.