Examined the family supports of 167 post-hospitalized older adults as they varied by the relationship of the primary caregiver. The findings indicated that the most comprehensive and unstressful support was provided by a spouse. Family members were available in serial order rather than acting as a shared-functioning unit. (JAC)

Assessed and compared the interpretive accuracy of the standard Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and two MMPI short forms with a sample of geriatric psychiatric inpatients. Psychiatric teams evaluated the accuracy of the interpretation. Standard form interpretations were rated significantly greater than the interpretations…

A survey of 72 pharmacy schools shows 22 percent of the schools had no geriatric coursework, 35 percent offered only courses in which the geriatric content averaged under 12 percent of course content, and 43 percent offered courses that focused primarily on geriatrics, most including a major clinical component. (Author/MSE)

Studied the relationship between progressive hearing loss (presbycusic) hearing patterns and social involvement of the aged. Individuals (N=50) with presbycusic hearing patterns were asked specific questions about their social activities. Results indicated that social involvement was not related significantly to the amount of hearing loss in this…

In these choice response keyboard tasks, older subjects detected and corrected their errors as efficiently as the young. Reaction time (RT) for error and error correction responses remained relatively constant with increasing age while RTs for correct responses and other, arbitrary, error-signaling responses markedly increased. (Author/SJL)

Describes a needs assessment model that offers practical suggestions to program planners in a multidisciplinary area of inquiry that is relatively new to continuing education in health sciences. (Available from University of California Press, Berkeley, CA 94720.) (Author/CT)

Practical Geriatrics, 10 continuing medical education programs, combine lecture, role models on videotape, problem-based learning, and commitment for change. Tests with four groups of community practitioners (n=83) demonstrated the program's effectiveness in inducing change and sparking participant enthusiasm. (SK)

Examined effect of experimental program in gerontology and geriatrics on third-year medical students. Experimental students (n=45) participated in four group sessions emphasizing psychological, sociodemographic, and physiological aspects of aging and interpersonal communication skills. Participants developed more positive attitudes and…

A survey of 11 fellowship programs supported by the New York Metropolitan Area Geriatrics Society revealed a striking disparity in quality and unanimous interest in sharing resources. All programs were positive about conferences and grand rounds but concerned about the home care component, clinical research, and the time availability of their…

A nursing continuing-education program on aged care used problem-based learning and journals. Observation, journal entries, and pre/posttest results for 15 participants showed that they developed a holistic, reflective approach to practice. Problem-based learning helped them link theory and practice. (SK)

Purpose: We examine the psychometric properties of the Philadelphia Geriatric Morale Scale (PGMS) in an elderly Chinese population in Hong Kong. Design and Methods: The study consisted of two cohorts: (a) 759 participants aged 70 years and older living in the community who were recruited as part of a territory-wide health survey and interviewed in…

This descriptive study examined the conceptions and misconceptions students in health professions have regarding older people. The research was conducted in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The findings revealed that students in health professions, as a whole, demonstrated a high degree of stereotypic misconceptions and poor knowledge about aging and older…

This paper reflects selected findings from a study of successful coping mechanisms used by elderly individuals who, approximately two years before the time of being interviewed, had experienced a major crisis identified as either: (1) the death of a significant individual with whom the elderly person has in most cases been living until the time of…

This brief speech discusses the correlation between nutrition and health among older adults. Food habits of older people do not always fall in line with their food needs and health condition. Therefore, there is a need to establish nutrition programs to help older adults, as well as others, learn how to regulate their diet. The speaker challenges…

Recounts the aftermath of Hurricane Gloria and necessity of frail individuals to be hospitalized for respite care due to loss of home services. Advances a new category of respite care which includes care for losses related to natural disasters. Describes characteristics of individuals requiring such care and specific reasons for their care.…