Dissemination and Implementation Theories, Models, or Frameworks Utilized in International Aging Research: A Citation...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Public Health
• Implementation Science
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Dissemination and Implementation (D&I) theories, models, and frameworks (TMFs) are crucial for translating research into practice.
• The utilization of D&I TMFs in international aging research is not well understood.
• This study addresses the gap by examining D&I TMF use in global studies on older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the most frequently used D&I TMFs in international aging research.
• To analyze how these TMFs are applied across different global settings.
• To assess the application of D&I TMFs across various stages of the implementation process.

Main Methods:

• A citation review was conducted on articles citing 83 identified D&I TMFs.
• Included articles focused on adults aged 60 years and older, published outside the US before January 2022.
• Analysis covered TMF citation patterns, application across implementation processes, article sections, and meaningful use.

Main Results:

• 451 articles from 41 countries were included, with most originating from Canada, England, Australia, and the Netherlands.
• Publication rates increased tenfold from 2012 to 2021, with 49 unique TMFs used.
• The Behavior Change Wheel, Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, and Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services were among the most cited frameworks.
• Most articles (81%) used a single TMF, and 39% demonstrated meaningful use.
• Studies predominantly focused on pre-implementation (41%) and implementation (46%) stages, with less attention to intervention adaptation (4%) or sustainment (9%).

Conclusions:

• While the use of D&I TMFs in international aging research is growing, their meaningful application is limited.
• A concentration of TMF use in specific countries and the dominance of a few frameworks highlight areas for improvement.
• Enhancing TMF selection, adapting them for international contexts, and applying them across all implementation stages are key to improving global translation of aging research.