Older adult stereotypes among care providers in residential care facilities: examining the relationship between contact, eduaction, and ageism.

One barrier to quality elder care is ageism among care providers. In the present study, two models of stereotype reduction were tested with care providers at residential homes for older adults--the effects of contact and the effects of education on prejudice. Caregivers at five residential programs in Australia completed a survey assessing education, training, contact with older clients, prior experience, and stereotypes toward older adults. Results revealed that contact was not associated with fewer stereotypes but education (both specific and general) was associated with fewer stereotypes. Implications are discussed in terms of possible interventions and increasing optimal contact with older clients.