Knowledge about, Attitudes towards, and Future Intentions to Work with Older Adults, of Senior Nursing Students in the Cities of Cebu and Mandaue: Proposed Enhanced Course Plan

Abstract

This study determines the correlation between knowledge about, attitudes towards, and future intentions to work with older adults, of senior nursing students in the cities of Cebu and Mandaue. A descriptive correlational method of research was employed using purposive sampling to arrive at the definite profiles of 185 senior nursing students from the colleges of nursing of Cebu Doctors’ University, Velez College, Cebu Normal University, and Southwestern University PHINMA. The study utilizes three research tools, namely: Facts on Aging Quiz (FAQ) by Dr. Endman Palmore; Kogan’s Attitudes Toward Old People (KAOP) Scale by Nathan Kogan; and The Intent to Work with Older People Questionnaire by Michael Nolan et al. Study participant profiles show that majority were between the ages of 18–36 years old, female, Filipino, and living with parents. The computed mean score for Knowledge was 12.71, with a score higher than 12.5 interpreted as knowledgeable. The computed mean score for Attitudes was 3.86 with a mean score equal to or higher than 4.00 interpreted as exhibiting a positive attitude. The computed mean score for Future Intentions to Work with Older Adults was 3.72, with a score of 4.00 or more interpreted as a greater desire to work with older adults. Results show that female respondents, those above 21 years old, were half-Filipino with Chinese, Vietnamese, or Spanish blood, and those living with relatives are more likely to have future intentions to work with older adults. A weak and negative correlation is seen between the respondents’ knowledge about older adults and their future intentions to work with older adults, however, a moderate correlation is seen between the respondents’ attitudes towards older adults and their future intentions to work with older adults. It can be concluded that senior nursing students of these schools are, on the average, knowledgeable about, exhibit negative attitudes towards, and lack the desire to work with older adults. A well-designed course plan emphasizing on enhancement of knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary for the care of the older adults, along with improving classroom teaching-learning sessions and actual clinical experiences of the students is recommended.