Creative Development Opportunities for Older Adult Simulated Participants

This chapter explores ways that SP educators can engage creatively and meaningfully with older adult SPs, beyond training for individual scenarios, to build on their current skills and further develop and support their skill development. We begin by exploring the concept of creative development for older SPs. Then, we present some applications of development opportunities for older adult SPs—drawn from the fields of improvision, the expressive arts, and mindfulness—that have been shown to be beneficial or applicable to older adults in general. For each application, we provide a brief overview and rationale as well as some specific activities for SP educators to try in their specific context. Tips for facilitation and additional resources are also included.