Teaching Direct Practice Techniques for Work With Elders With Alzheimer's Disease: A Simulated Group Experience

This paper describes a role-play exercise with MSW and BSW students enrolled in social work gerontology courses (N=26). Simulation was conceived as a method of sensitizing and preparing future practitioners for work with elders with severe forms of memory-impairment. Written and oral comments were analyzed following the group simulation. Four major themes emerged, including (a) demystifying practical knowledge and skill for direct practice with memory impaired elders; (b) respect for diversity among memory-impaired elders; (c) increased awareness of the experienced-feeling of the impaired elder; and, (d) the challenge of group work with this vulnerable population.