Reflections on conducting qualitative research with elderly people

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Nursing Home Studies

Background:

• Research with elderly populations often faces challenges, particularly in quantitative studies concerning consent.
• Existing literature on qualitative research with older adults lacks practical guidance for daily research situations.
• Elderly individuals in nursing homes represent a vulnerable population requiring specific research considerations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the practical challenges encountered during qualitative data collection with elderly individuals in nursing homes.
• To share firsthand experiences of a phenomenological study involving this demographic.
• To inform qualitative researchers about potential day-to-day difficulties in this research context.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological study design.
• Data collection involving elderly residents in nursing homes.
• Qualitative research approach focusing on lived experiences.

Main Results:

• Challenges in obtaining informed consent from elderly participants.
• Difficulties in establishing rapport and ensuring participant comfort during data collection.
• Navigating communication barriers and varying cognitive abilities among residents.
• Addressing ethical considerations specific to institutionalized elderly individuals.

Conclusions:

• Qualitative research with elderly nursing home residents requires careful planning and adaptability.
• Researchers must be prepared for logistical and interpersonal challenges beyond standard ethical protocols.
• Sharing experiences is crucial for improving future qualitative research methodologies in gerontology.