Degree Name
MS (Master of Science)
Program
Clinical Nutrition
Date of Award
5-2024
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Whitney Bignell
Committee Members
Michelle Lee, Lisa Dunkley
Abstract
The growing older adult population has led to increased ageist tendencies among younger generations. Previous research suggests that ageism is associated with cognitive and physical decline among older adults. This mixed-methods research project examined changes in ageist perceptions among graduate student facilitators and undergraduate nutrition ambassadors after participating in a training that included information about healthy aging, addressing ageism, and communicating with older adults. Results from a secondary data analysis of pre-test/post-test data and thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with facilitators of Socially Nutritious, a virtual nutrition education program for older adults, indicate that ageist perceptions decreased after the training, which was supported by positive experiences with intergenerational communication articulated by graduate student facilitators in the interviews. Training to address ageism and develop a positive perception of aging and intergenerational experiences sharing knowledge about foods and nutrition may decrease ageist beliefs among young adults.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Hensley, Julianne, "Changes in Young Adults’ Perspective on Ageism After Participating in a Virtual Nutrition Education Program with Older Adults" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4414. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/4414
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.
Included in
Community-Based Research Commons, Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Commons, Gerontology Commons