First-year pharmacy students have an opportunity for intergenerational social activities with independent living senior citizens living in Central Ohio. Specifically, students and seniors engage in games and projects, and share meals at various Columbus locations. Students also meet at the College of Pharmacy where they conduct discussions with pharmacists and 3rd or 4th year pharmacy students. They also meet with personnel from several Central Ohio agencies engaged in services to seniors.

A service-learning course format is employed during this one-quarter experience for students enrolled in Pharmacy 664. Two major goals for students are: (1) to gain a greater understanding of issues related to aging; and, (2) to develop listening skills.

As the students develop friendships with seniors they are encouraged to think about their future role as a patient advocate and how they can meet the health care needs of senior citizens. One specific activity for all students is an interview with a senior in the aisle of a pharmacy where non-prescription medications are sold. The purpose of the exercise is for students to gain a better understanding of how senior citizens make decisions regarding the non-prescription medications they purchase.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---