Improving recruitment of older people to research through good practice

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Clinical Research Methodology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Significant under-representation of older adults in clinical research is a persistent issue.
• Exclusion and under-recruitment of this demographic limit the generalizability of findings.
• This impacts the development of effective clinical management strategies for the aging population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide practical guidance for researchers to set realistic recruitment targets.
• To offer strategies for increasing the participation of older individuals in clinical trials.
• To address challenges in recruiting older adults, including those with mental incapacity and from minority groups.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 14 recently published clinical trials to assess recruitment rates and participant demographics.
• Review of existing literature and expert opinion on optimizing recruitment strategies.
• Discussion of practical approaches for various healthcare settings (hospital, primary care, care homes).

Main Results:

• The number needed to screen to recruit one older participant is approximately 3:1.
• Exclusion rates for older adults can be as high as 49%.
• Dropout rates range from 5% to 37%, with varying success in achieving planned study power.

Conclusions:

• Implementing effective planning and logistics is crucial for successful recruitment of older adults.
• Tailored approaches are needed for different settings and for vulnerable subgroups.
• Engaging the public and patients is vital to enhance the inclusion of older people in research.