Abstract
Purpose : This study is aimed at offering basic data for fostering the flexible attitude of physical therapy students towards seniors with dementia and the clinical ability to deal with such patients without fear after employment. Method : We investigated 181 physical therapists and 225 university students by using questionnaires from August 12 to September 19 2013. The questionnaire that used in this study was consisted by question about general characteristics, knowledge of dementia, attitude of dementia. The following result was obtained by using SPSS 19.0. Result : Attitude scores for dementia, Physical therapist was 41.66. Physical Therapy student was 40.34. Non-student Department of Health was 39.22. Non-Department of Health student was affected by acquisition of dementia information and living with the elderly. Physical Therapy student had significant influence depending on the household monthly income. Non-Department of Health student had significant influence depending on student age. Physical therapist had significant influence in accordance with dementia information. Conclusion : The study has revealed that the following factors of the therapists influence their attitudes towards dementia: their age; educational level; whether or not they have a family member with dementia; whether or not they have obtained information on dementia. Based on the finding, it is necessary to foster the flexible attitude of students towards seniors with dementia and provide education on effective clinical approaches upon physical therapy.
