BGSU’s Optimal Aging Institute helps students grades 9-12 explore careers working with older adults at summer camp

 June 15, 2024

The Optimal Aging Institute (OAI) board members collaborated with the School of Nursing and the Center of Excellence in Health and Wellness to host summer camps that show students different health care fields with simulations, games and various learning materials. 

Nursing Camp

OAI provided interactive case studies that showed real situations older adults might encounter. Campers also experienced a simulation of various conditions that older adults often live with, such as arthritis and swallowing disorders.

Case Studies

Case studies from faculty experiences helped campers to understand challenges some older adults face. Older adults may experience multiple health and mental health concerns, lack of access to transportation and little social support system. Students were asked to identify concerns and to critically evaluate how a professional might provide support.   

Simulation Activities

Students had the opportunity to experience what it would be like to drink thickened liquids. Many older adults with swallowing issues, like those from a stroke, may need thickened liquids to help them stay hydrated and prevent liquids from entering their lungs. Drinking thickened liquids was fun for the students, however a great discussion took place on how to encourage those who need it.  

Students also felt what it might be like to live with arthritis. They taped their hands and wore gloves. Students were then asked to send a text, email and make a phone call. This helped students to see the challenges of everyday tasks  with limited fine motor skills. 

Discovering Hidden Health Sciences Camp

The Discovering Hidden Health Sciences Camp explored less common health care careers, like gerontology, medical lab sciences, public health, social work, and therapies by providing campers with interactive activities.

Campers learned the science between food and nutrition by creating menus and cooking their own lunches. They played games to bust aging myths. They learned about public health, environmental issues, sanitation and hygiene. They conducted simulated medical lab tests for diagnosing illness. Campers were introduced to careers in social work, occupational and speech therapy.   

The OAI team looks forward to continuing to work with high school students to inspire the next generation to consider health care careers working with older adults.  

Do you know a high school student who wishes to explore different careers? BGSU offers several summer camps in various fields. Click here to learn more.