Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate changes in empathy and perceptions as well as game experiences among student pharmacists participating in an aging simulation game. METHODS: First-year student pharmacists participated in an aging simulation game. Changes were measured pre/post-activity using the Kiersma-Chen Empathy Scale (KCES) and Jefferson Scale of Empathy--Health Professions Scale (JSE-HPS) for empathy and the Aging Simulation Experience Survey (ASES) for perceptions of older adults' experiences and game experiences. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to determine changes. RESULTS: One hundred fifty-six student pharmacists completed the instruments. Empathy using the KCES and JSE-HPS improved significantly. Of the 13 items in the ASES, 9 significantly improved. CONCLUSION: Simulation games may help students overcome challenges demonstrating empathy and positive attitudes toward elderly patients.