Dementia knowledge and attitudes of nursing undergraduate students—association between lifestyle background and practical training experience—

Objective To clarify the association between dementia knowledge and attitudes, lifestyle backgrounds, and practical training experiences of nursing students, and examine the basic nursing education for dementia. Participants and Methods A total of 412 first-to-fourth-year students at Nursing College A participated in the study. A cross-sectional survey was conducted regarding knowledge (15 questions) and attitudes (15 questions) related to dementia. Results Consent was obtained from 158 individuals (The response rate was 38.3%). Significant items regarding dementia attitudes and cohabitation experiences were identified. Additionally, significant items regarding attitude toward dementia and care providing experiences were identified. Conclusion Associations among attitude toward dementia, cohabitation experiences, and care providing experiences were determined. Knowledge and attitudes regarding dementia improved with practical training experience.