The US
Census Bureau estimates an increase in the population aged 65+, which is
projected to reach 83.7 million by 2050. With this changing demographicthose with specialized
training in aging are needed. Undergraduate students have varying knowledge and
attitudes towards older adults. To better understand undergraduate student’s
knowledge and attitudes regarding older adults we surveyed a group of 171
undergraduate students enrolled in the school of arts and sciences. Students
were surveyed using the Facts on Aging
Quiz, the Aging Semantic
Differential, Kogan’s Attitudes Toward Old People Scale, and student’s
perceptions of working with older people. Students reported varying scores on
perceptions toward older adults. The ASD found that students held more positive
attitudes towards older adults, while the KAOP indicated that students had more
neutral attitudes towards older adults. In general, students were neutral regarding perceptions about
wanting to work with older adults.
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