‘It’s like a shot in the arm’: evaluating the experiences of older simulated participants in structured virtual meetings during COVID-19

Abstract

Introduction Simulation is an effective educational strategy to train those caring for older adults (persons over 60 years old). Working with simulated participants (SPs), well people trained to portray others, is an appropriate modality when learning objectives relate to behavioural skills. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted every aspect of society. At our simulation programme, we implemented a weekly, virtual, 1-hour meeting modelled on a framework that incorporates effective practices in simulation and working with older adults. In this paper, we explored older volunteer SPs’ perceptions of the shift from in-person to virtual meetings and its impact on their well-being and SP skill development. Methods This was a qualitative exploratory study of older adult SPs’ experiences within the virtual SP meetings. Thirteen volunteer older SPs consented to participate in audio recorded focus groups where they were asked to describe their experiences with the virtual SP meetings. A collaborative, inductive coding approach was adopted, followed by thematic analysis, aligned with the methods described by Braun and Clarke. Ethics approval was obtained. Results Four primary themes were identified: fostering meaningful and cohesive group connections; gaining personal benefits; enhancing SP skills and competence; and appreciating structure. Discussion A structured, regularly occurring virtual meeting is beneficial to the building and maintenance of SP skills for older adults and their well-being. This approach could be applied to other groups of SPs with the proviso that facilitators are skilled, and a framework is in place featuring the basic tenets of effective simulation.