The use of motivational interviewing during an interdisciplinary Service-Learning activity for older adults at risk for dementia.

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to develop a service-learning program based on motivational interviewing for older adults living alone and at risk for dementia. This paper focused on description and implementation of the developed program and students' preliminary outcomes as a mixed-methods pilot study. Participants were nine students in occupational therapy, physical therapy, and social work and three older adults matched to each of the three interdisciplinary student groups. Students' attitudes about community service improved. Also, participation in the program was regarded as a new useful experience that helped in realizing the importance of interprofessional collaboration, expanding knowledge about other disciplines, contributing to the community and professional development, and understanding older adults living alone. Future study should include a larger sample size and measure the program's effectiveness for both the students and older adults.