A Pilot Study Investigating MSc Rehabilitation Science Students Perceptions of Older Adult Rehabilitation
Gareth McCoy & Fiona Moffat
Division of Physiotherapy, School of Health and Social Care, Glasgow Caledonian University, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, G4 OBA
Background and Purpose Scotland’s population is ageing thus increasing the burden on a health service of which adults over 65 are already principle users. The Scottish Executive recognises rehabilitation as key to meeting healthcare needs of older adults with the physiotherapy profession integral to this. Little is known about student Physiotherapists attitudes toward working in this specialty. This study aimed to explore their attitudes and perceptions toward older adult rehabilitation. Methods An inductive qualitative study was carried out within the framework of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Five female and one male second year MSc Rehabilitation Science students participated in a focus group. All participants had undertaken a four week clinical placement in the area of Older Adult Rehabilitation. Findings Three themes were identified: influences on student’s perceptions, complexity of older adults and status of older adult rehabilitation. Student’s perceptions were influenced by factors including their personal interests, site facilities and clinical educators. Despite positives being taken, particularly interaction with older adults, and a realisation of its complexity, overall this setting had lower status than other specialities and was viewed as having fewer opportunities for professional progression. Employment in this setting was considered on a rotational basis, but was unlikely to be a priority career choice. Conclusion Within this group of students, older adult rehabilitation languishes behind other specialties in terms of popularity and perceived professional development. Issues in relation to: negative preconceptions, influence of clinical educators, measurement of improvements and curriculum development need to be explored.
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