Pharmacy Technician Students Engage in Aging Simulation
Students in the Pharmacy Technician program recently participated in a simulation exercise meant to build understanding and empathy for the physical and cognitive effects of aging. The exercise was held in collaboration with the Centre for Healthcare Simulation and Research (CHSR), located at the Institute for Applied Health Sciences (IAHS) campus.
As part of their scope of practice, pharmacy technicians play an important role in educating and training patients on the proper use of a variety of medication administration devices, including glucometers, eye drops and inhalers.
During this simulation, students experienced the effects of aging by wearing vision-impairing goggles and wrist weights designed to simulate reduced visual acuity, decreased strength, and diminished dexterity. These aspects of the aging simulation provided valuable insight into the barriers that many older adults face when managing their medications independently.
Through the simulation, students recognized the importance of patience, clear communication, and individualized patient counselling. The experience increased their awareness of factors that can impact medication adherence and reinforced the need to consider age-related physical limitations when providing patient care and education.
Overall, students found the simulation to be highly beneficial, as it strengthened both their technical skills in medication administration and their ability to provide empathetic, patient-centred support to older adults. The activity enhanced their understanding of the practical challenges patients may encounter and better prepared them for future pharmacy practice.
As I applied the impairment equipment and carried out the role of the patient, I understood the frustrations of not being able to see, hear, and move to my full potential. This was extremely frustrating, but at the same time, eye-opening and allowed me to reflect and change my approach for when I took on the role of pharmacy technician.
