Obtaining and maintaining a research sample with cognitively impaired nursing home residents

Obtaining and maintaining a research sample of cognitively impaired nursing home residents is a challenging task. One cannot conduct research with this population without the cooperation of the nursing home administration and staff. The initial challenge is identifying and screening potential subjects. The medical record often provides inadequate information, necessitating direct observation and use of screening tools. Once potential subjects have been identified, the researcher must obtain consent. This complicated process may vary from site to site. Because of the potential subjects' cognitive impairment, we must obtain additional consent from a proxy. A variety of persons may function as proxy. Suggested methods of contact include personal contact at the nursing home and phone or written contact. Proxies may raise many issues in deciding whether to consent.