Using images in focus groups with older carers

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how providing a wide variety of visual images facilitated discussions amongst older informal carers in focus groups.Design/methodology/approachIn all, 72 older (aged 70+ years) informal carers took part in nine focus groups discussing their experiences as older carers. Participants were provided with a wide selection of different, freely available printed images which included abstract and humorous images and countryside scenes.FindingsThese older carers appeared to enjoy using these pictures to facilitate introducing themselves and to describe their diverse caring experiences. Sharing often challenging experiences using the images and visual metaphors appeared to support the group to discuss difficult, sensitive issues in often light-hearted ways.Research limitations/implicationsThis approach appeared to enhance data collection with these older participants in an enjoyable way by helping them focus on the topic at hand whilst facilitating them to give succinct descriptions of their experiences. However, further research is needed in order to be confident of the transferability of these findings to other older participant groups discussing different topics. Only informal carers were included and there were no direct comparisons with groups without images.Practical implicationsUsing commonly available visual images in focus groups with older carers appeared to be an effective means of encouraging participant discussions and engagement.Originality/valueTo the authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to describe how using visual images facilitated focus group discussions with older informal carers. It therefore adds to the literature.