The role of knowledge and attitudes toward older adults in understanding nursing students’ inclination to work with them: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Singapore’s population is aging. Currently, 15% of Singapore’s population is 65 years and above. Low birth rates and high life expectancy have fueled a high demand for geriatric care in Singapore. This research explores the role of knowledge that nursing students have about aging, their attitudes toward older adults, and their inclination to pursue careers in geriatric nursing. This cross-sectional study administered standardized scales to understand 347 nursing students’ knowledge (Palmore Facts on Aging Quiz), attitudes (Kogan’s Attitudes toward Older People) and inclinations (Nolan’s Intent to Work with Older People). Results showed that Singapore nursing students have a moderate level of knowledge about aging and showed a strong willingness to work with older adults. Younger students displayed higher knowledge, better attitudes, and a greater inclination to work with older adults than older students. Furthermore, local students exhibited higher knowledge, more positive attitudes, and greater interest in working with older adults than their international counterparts. This study, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealed valuable insights into our nursing students’ perspectives on aging. Nursing students displayed a moderate understanding of aging, a positive attitude toward older adults and a strong desire to serve them, suggesting a potential future workforce ready to fulfill the demands of Singapore’s aging population. This insight is valuable for educators, guiding them to bridge knowledge gaps and foster open conversations about aging.