At a glance
ClinicalIndex Comparison RecordStandardized by ClinicalIndex from the ClinicalTrials.gov record · verify against the source.
Mejorar la empatía Hacia el Mayor Mediante la simulación de la Vejez
In Brief
A clinical study evaluating Experimental: Aging Simulation Suit + Educational Session and Control: Educational Session Only for Aging and Empathy Skills. Completed, enrolled 82 participants across 1 site.
Detailed Summary
This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of using an aging simulation suit on empathy levels among healthcare professionals working in long-term care facilities. A total of 82 participants from four nursing homes in Madrid and Asturias were randomly assigned to an experimental group or a control group. The experimental group received a theoretical session on aging and empathy, followed by an immersive experience using the GERT aging simulation suit, which replicates age-related physical and sensory limitations. The control group attended only the theoretical session. Empathy was assessed before and after the intervention using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) and the Jefferson Scale of Empathy - Health Professions version (JSPE-HPS). Results showed significant improvements in the JSPE-HPS total score and in its Perspective Taking and Compassionate Care dimensions in the experimental group, indicating that the immersive experience enhanced both cognitive and affective components of clinical empathy. No significant changes were observed in the IRI scores. These findings suggest that experiential learning through aging simulation can effectively strengthen empathy in active healthcare professionals, promoting more person-centered and compassionate care for older adults in long-term care settings.
Study Details
Timeline
Interventions
Immersive training session using the GERT aging simulation suit (Niederstotzingen, Germany), designed to reproduce age-related physical and sensory limitations. Participants performed common daily activities (e.g., walking, climbing stairs, dressing, interacting with others) while wearing the suit to experience the physical challenges of aging. This activity was followed by a short debriefing and group reflection aimed at enhancing empathy and awareness toward older adults.
A structured theoretical session covering topics such as aging processes, functional limitations, and the importance of empathy in healthcare and long-term care contexts. Delivered to all participants in both study arms, serving as the baseline educational component for the control and experimental groups.