Effect of Geriatric Clinical Rotations on Health Professions Trainees' Attitudes About Older Adults

A study of health professional trainees from several disciplines examined trainees' knowledge and attitudes toward older adults before and after clinical rotations in geriatrics at three VA Medical Centers with Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Centers (GRECCs). The clinical training experience improved participants' interests in geriatrics, particularly among those who rated their level of geriatric interest as low prior to the clinical experience. Knowledge remained relatively low. Attitudes toward older adults began moderately positive and improved significantly in relation to older adults' instrumentality and integrity. Targeting geriatric training to a broader audience than those who have already elected that field of practice is recommended.