Competences of physiotherapists and nurses working with older adults in Sri Lanka: a need analysis exploratory study with students, academics and health professionals

Background & Aim: The population of Sri Lanka (SL) is rapidly aging, with a growing demand for healthcare professionals skilled in geriatric care. Nurses and physiotherapists play a crucial role in the management of the health and well-being of older adults. This survey aimed to identify the current resources and demands in the professional competences for physiotherapy and nursing professionals working with older adults in SL. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among physiotherapists and nurses working in health care settings in SL, academic staff members involved in teaching, training and research, and final year physiotherapy and nursing undergraduates in selected state universities in SL. All the participants completed an online survey consisting of general socio-demographic information, professional and education-related information, knowledge, skills, and clinical and non-clinical competences required for older adult care. Results: Among the 189 respondents (mean age=32.44; SD=8.16 years), 145 (76.7%) were females, 113 (59.8%) were physiotherapists, and 76 (40.2%) were nurses. Of the total participants, 54 (28.6%) were academic staff members, 64 (33.9%) were final-year undergraduates and 71 (37.6%) were healthcare professionals (physiotherapists and nurses). Physiotherapists reported being less confident in “managing chronic pain in older adults” compared to nurses (p=0.03). “Active listening” (88%) and “respect for dignity and autonomy” (76.8%) were identified as more relevant aspects for health professionals under empathy in the care of older adults. “Communication barriers” (83.1%), “financial constraints” (66.7%) and “cultural sensitivity” (63.0%) were identified as challenges that healthcare professionals faced when working with older adults. Conclusions & Recommendations: The findings emphasize the importance of incorporating geriatric-specific training into the undergraduate education and professional development of healthcare providers, particularly nurses and physiotherapists. Policymakers, education and healthcare institutions should collaborate to develop structured training programs that address the identified competency gaps and promote the delivery of holistic and person-centred care for older adults.