Resident Mariechen Smith volunteers her time.

Since 2005, Carolina Meadows has partnered with UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine to train 3rd year medical students in fall risk assessment. All 3rd year students are required to attend a 2-hour workshop on the importance of assessing and managing fall risks in all older adults.

The workshop includes a lecture on current evidence-based fall prevention and a 30 minute “lab” session in which residents of Carolina Meadows volunteer and allow the students to practice the skills learned in the lecture. Afterwards, students and residents visit together over lunch.

Resident Bob Kent sits and talks with some of the students.
Students are highly appreciative and value the experience. Responses from students include – “This is a wonderful use of my time.”, “This has been one of the most meaningful experiences I have had in my medical school training.” Students have also shared with Dr. Tiffany Shubert, program developer and organizer that this experience has changed the way they view their older adult patients and the aging process in general.