Walk a mile in their shoes: aging suit boosts empathy in nursing home staff

NCT ID NCT07280689

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Universidad Rey Juan Carlos Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether having healthcare workers wear a special suit that mimics the physical challenges of aging could increase their empathy toward older adults. 82 nurses, therapists, and other staff from four nursing homes took part. Half wore the suit and did everyday tasks, then discussed their experience; the other half only attended a lecture. Those who used the suit showed significant improvements in clinical empathy, especially in understanding patients' perspectives and providing compassionate care.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: aging simulation suit (GERT suit) plus educational session
What this could lead to: If this approach works, it could lead to better, more compassionate care for older adults in nursing homes.
What could go wrong: This was a small, completed study with only 82 participants. The empathy improvements were seen on one scale but not another, so the effect may be limited or not generalizable.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AGING EMPATHY SKILLS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Universidad Rey Juan Carlos

Alcorcón, Madrid, 28922, Spain

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