Special Feature: Ageism and Implications for Gerontic Occupational Therapy Practice

Personal values and attitudes always impact relationships with other people, including professional relationships. This study reports on the extent of age bias among occupational therapists (OTs) to determine the degree to which the client's age affects clinical decision making. Questionnaires were mailed to 128 randomly selected OTs on Long Island, New York, of whom 42 (33%) responded. Respondents were divided into two groups. Each group was provided with identical questionnaires and case studies, differing only in the age of the client (28 years old versus 78 years old). Results found no significant differences in treatment goals between groups, except in the areas of mobility aids and anticipated return to work.