Attitudes of Homebound Older Adults and Their Caregivers Toward Research and Participation as Research Advisors.

Abstract

Homebound older adults and their caregivers have not historically been engaged as advisors in patient-centered outcomes research. This study aimed to understand the attitudes of homebound older adults and their caregivers toward research and participation as research advisors. Descriptive thematic analysis of semistructured interviews conducted with 30 homebound older adults and caregivers recruited from home-based medical care practices. Interview questions addressed opinions on research and preferences for engaging as research advisors. Of 30 participants, 22 were female, 17 were people of color, and 11 had Medicaid. Two themes emerged related to perceptions of research overall: (a) utility of research and (b) relevance of research. Overall, participants reported positive attitudes toward research and felt that research could affect people like them. Three themes emerged related to participating as research advisors: (a) motivators, (b) barriers, and (c) preferences. Participants were open to engaging in a variety of activities as research advisors. Most participants were motivated by helping others. Common barriers included time constraints and caregiving responsibilities, and physical barriers for homebound individuals. Participants also reported fears such as lacking the skills or expertise to contribute as advisors. Many were willing to participate if these barriers were accommodated and shared their communication preferences. Diverse homebound older adults and caregivers are willing to be engaged as research advisors and provided information to inform future engagement strategies. Findings can inform efforts to meet new age-inclusive requirements of the National Institutes of Health.