Live-Model Simulation: Improving Nursing Students' Attitudes and Knowledge of Alzheimer's Disease

Background: An estimated 5.2 million people have Alzheimer's disease (AD). Few new nurses are entering gerontology because of ageism toward older adults and those with dementias and a lack of gerontological education. The purpose of the study was to test whether live-model simulation used as a teaching modality could improve students' knowledge of AD and their attitudes toward older adults with AD and related dementias. Method: Mezirow's transformation theory was used as the framework for the randomized controlled trial. Sample consisted of 65 nursing students. Result: Within the group of students who participated in the experience, there was a significant change in knowledge from pre-to posttest. Conclusion: This study offers new insights into how live-model simulations can help students to become more knowledgeable about AD.