Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Clinical Research
• Health Equity

Background:

• Dementia research requires diverse participant populations for generalizable findings.
• Non-English speakers are often excluded from U.S. studies due to complexity.
• This study addresses recruitment and engagement challenges for non-English speakers in cognitive assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe challenges and learnings in recruiting and engaging non-English speakers in a clinical cognitive assessment study.
• To identify strategies for improving the inclusion of diverse linguistic populations in dementia research.

Main Methods:

• The study involved a pragmatic randomized controlled trial (eRADAR) using an EHR-based algorithm.
• Recruitment included Chinese and Spanish speakers, employing evidence-based language approaches and bilingual advisors.
• Research staff tracked recruitment and visit data, with qualitative analysis of comments to identify themes.

Main Results:

• Discrepancies in preferred language and EHR documentation hindered recruitment.
• Communication barriers were compounded by hearing/cognitive issues and care partner reliance.
• Complexities arose during visits regarding language fluency, bilingualism, and assessment tool selection.

Conclusions:

• Even with evidence-based approaches, language needs of participants and care partners require careful attention.
• Researchers must anticipate challenges and implement robust strategies for inclusive dementia research.
• Ensuring equitable participation is vital for advancing dementia research and treatments for all populations.