Healthcare assistants’ attitudes towards older people and their knowledge about ageing
Main Article Content
Keywords
Attitude, healthcare assistants, Ireland, knowledge, long-term care, nursing leadership
Abstract
This study aims to assess the attitudes of healthcare assistants (HCAs) towards elderly patients in long-term care settings and their knowledge of aging, with a focus on implications for nursing leadership in Ireland.
Method: A survey was conducted using a convenience sample of HCAs across three long-term care facilities in Ireland.
Results: The study revealed predominantly positive attitudes among HCAs towards older patients. Furthermore, a correlation was observed between a deeper understanding of aging and more positive attitudes among HCAs.
Conclusion: Given the challenges posed by changing population demographics and nursing shortages, it is crucial to prioritize continuing education for HCAs. Nursing leadership plays a pivotal role in driving innovations in education that can enhance HCAs' knowledge and foster positive attitudes towards elderly care.
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