Ageism in Nursing Education: Students’ Views of Ageing

Abstract

The world is ageing, families are changing, and a new view of society is needed. Since nursing students will be the health professionals caring for older adults, working with nursing students from an early stage is critical. With this study, we intend to assess ageism levels among nursing students and analyse students’ views on ageing, improving nursing education and care for older adults, and promoting well-being in society. An exploratory mixed-methods study with first-year nursing degree students was conducted. Two instruments were used: the Fraboni Scale of Ageism and a sociodemographic questionnaire with an open question: what does ageing mean to you? Sixty-four students participated in the study. A mean total ageism score of 80.05 (SD = 12.23) was found, indicating a positive attitude towards older adults. In this study, no statistically significant relationship was found between the total score of ageism and the variables age, gender, and contact with older adults. Two visions emerged regarding the “meaning of ageing”: the subcategory “positive view”: experience and knowledge; psychological and social growth; skills development; and good feelings/emotions. The following subcategories emerged from the subcategory “negative view”: finitude; disabilities; physiological decline; and bad feelings/emotions. The results achieved allow for a more effective educational response, integrating personalised and innovative strategies in the training of nursing students. However, it is crucial to develop more studies about the educational strategies that promote a more positive view of ageing among nursing students, which may influence the way older adults are cared for in society.