Dietetics students' low knowledge, attitudes, and work preferences toward older adults indicate need for improved education about aging.

Objective: This study examined students' knowledge and attitudes about aging and their interest in working with the older adult population in the United States.

Design: A 97-item questionnaire included demographic items, a ranking section on work preferences by age groups, and two validated scales: the Palmore Facts on Aging Quiz, and the Oberleder Attitude Scale.

Subjects: Those surveyed were enrolled in the 10 largest universities in the 5 states with the largest population of older adults: California, Florida, New York, Texas, and Pennsylvania.