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Runacres J, Herron D. Designing Inclusive Qualitative Research with Carers of People Living with Dementia: Methodological Insights. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2125. [PMID: 37570366 PMCID: PMC10419147 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11152125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The support provided by carers of people living with dementia results in savings for the UK economy; however, providing this care has a significant impact on carers. Supports are needed to ensure that carers can continue to provide care, and carers should be involved in the generation of the evidence necessary to develop such support. However, this relies on their ability to meaningfully engage with research, yet current data collection methods create obstacles to engagement. In this paper, we aim to provide a critical examination of approaches to qualitative data collection with carers and produce recommendations for the design of inclusive research. First, different approaches to qualitative data collection are discussed and appraised. Following this, a case study of inclusive research is presented, illustrating how carers can be facilitated to engage in research. Finally, recommendations for inclusive research are offered, including the collection of data without the cared-for person present, building additional care into a study design, providing 'incidental funds,' offering sustenance and remuneration, and undertaking research in a neutral space. These recommendations are designed to facilitate the involvement of carers in research and promote the use of more varied or multifaceted methods to develop the current evidence base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Runacres
- Department of Midwifery and Allied Health, Staffordshire University, Staffordshire ST4 2DE, UK
| | - Daniel Herron
- Department of Psychology, Staffordshire University, Staffordshire ST4 2DE, UK;
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Joshi S, Park T, Brody L, Cruz K, Mukhi P, Reid MC, Herr K, Pillemer K, Riffin C. Recruitment of family caregivers of persons with dementia: Lessons learned from a pilot randomized controlled trial. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1125914. [PMID: 37051457 PMCID: PMC10083411 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1125914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Family caregivers play an essential role in supporting the health and well-being of older adults with dementia, a population projected to increase rapidly over the coming decades. Enrolling caregivers of people with dementia (PWD) in research studies is vital to generating the evidence necessary to support broader implementation of efficacious intervention programs in real-world care delivery, but a range of challenges impede recruitment and enrollment of sufficiently large and representative sample sizes. In this article, we characterize the challenges and lessons learned from recruiting caregivers of PWD to participate in a pilot randomized control trial. We utilize Bronfenbrenner's ecological model to categorize the challenges into three levels: individual (i.e., understanding caregivers' time constraints and motivations), community (i.e., reaching underrepresented populations and accessing caregiver support groups) and institutional (i.e., obtaining informed consent and navigating research registries). We found that establishing rapport and maintaining flexibility with participants was crucial for motivating individuals to enroll in our study. Building trust with local communities by collaborating with support group leaders, appointing a co-investigator who is already embedded within a given community, and establishing equitable partnerships with organizations increased recruitment rates. At the institutional level, engaging experts in regulatory affairs and geriatrics may help overcome barriers in obtaining approval from institutional review boards. We also recommend using research registries of individuals who offer their contact information to researchers. The lessons learned from our research-including the challenges and potential solutions to overcome them-may promote more effective and efficient recruitment in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sama Joshi
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Taeyoung Park
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lilla Brody
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kiana Cruz
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ, United States
| | - Priya Mukhi
- College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - M. Carrington Reid
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Keela Herr
- College of Nursing, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, UnitedStates
| | - Karl Pillemer
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Catherine Riffin
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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3
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Leung T, Portz J, Fischer SM, Greenway E, Johnson RL, Knoepke CE, Matlock DD, Omeragic F, Peterson RA, Ranney ML, Betz ME. A Web-Based Decision Aid for Caregivers of Persons With Dementia With Firearm Access (Safe at Home Study): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e43702. [PMID: 36719721 PMCID: PMC9929727 DOI: 10.2196/43702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Firearm safety among individuals with Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) is an underdiscussed and underresearched concern in the United States, especially given the growing population of community-dwelling adults with ADRD. The "Safety in Dementia" (SiD) web-based decision aid was developed to support caregivers in addressing firearm access; the efficacy of SiD is unknown. OBJECTIVE Through the SiD decision aid, the Safe at Home (S@H) study aims to support caregivers in making decisions about home safety that align with their goals and values, and behaviors regarding firearm access for persons with ADRD and firearm access. METHODS The S@H study is a 2-armed randomized controlled trial to test the effect of the SiD decision aid on caregivers of community-dwelling adults with ADRD who have firearm access. S@H aims to recruit 500 ADRD caregivers (age ≥18 years, fluent in English or Spanish, and in the United States) through online or social media advertisements and through relevant organizations. Participants are randomized to view SiD or a control website at their own pace; all participants complete web-based questionnaires at baseline, 2 weeks, 2 months, and 6 months. The primary outcome is immediate preparation for decision-making; secondary outcomes include longitudinal decision outcomes and self-reported modifications to firearm access. The relative reach and effectiveness of each recruitment method (online/social media and through relevant organizations) will be assessed by examining differences in caregiver participation, retention rates, and relative cost. RESULTS The study enrollment began in May 2022. As of December 2022, a total of 117 participants had enrolled. CONCLUSIONS The S@H study is the first randomized trial of a firearm safety decision aid for ADRD caregivers. The results from this study will inform how best to support caregivers in decision-making regarding firearm safety. Further, results may guide approaches for recruiting caregivers and for dissemination of resources. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05173922; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05173922. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/43702.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Portz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Stacy M Fischer
- Division of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Emily Greenway
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Rachel L Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Christopher E Knoepke
- Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Division of Cardiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Daniel D Matlock
- Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,VA Eastern Colorado Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, United States.,Division of Geriatric Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Faris Omeragic
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Ryan A Peterson
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Megan L Ranney
- Brown-Lifespan Center for Digital Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Marian E Betz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Injury and Violence Prevention Center, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,VA Eastern Colorado Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, United States
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Jiménez S, Bueno B, Navarro AB. Do the caregiving spouses of people with dementia in Spain perceive the same barriers for taking part in interventions as caregiving offspring? HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e2385-e2394. [PMID: 34890481 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this qualitative research is to examine the difficulties perceived by caregivers for taking part in an offered intervention, exploring whether there are differences depending on caregiver's degree of kinship. Forty-two family caregivers from Salamanca (Spain) were interviewed after declining an invitation to take part in an intervention programme. All the telephone conversations were transcribed verbatim. The transcriptions were subject to a thematic content analysis using QDA MINER software. The barriers identified were (1) difficulties adapting to the intervention's schedule due to a lack of time, or incompatibility with its dates or timetables, (2) belief among the caregivers that they do not need or are not interested in the support the intervention provides, (3) impossibility to separate from the family member to attend due to the absence of relief or a feeling of guilt, (4) caregiver's health issues, (5) difficulties with accessibility, and (6) belief that the therapies serve no useful purpose. Certain differences were identified depending on the caregiver's kinship. Understanding the difficulties caregivers face for taking part in the interventions will enable steps to be taken to remove and/or reduce such barriers, whereby more caregivers will benefit from interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Jiménez
- Departamento de Psicología Evolutiva y de la Educación, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Belén Bueno
- Departamento de Psicología Evolutiva y de la Educación, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ana B Navarro
- Departamento de Psicología Evolutiva y de la Educación, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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Kowe A, Köhler S, Klein OA, Lüthje C, Kalzendorf J, Weschke S, Teipel S. Stakeholder involvement in dementia research: A qualitative approach with healthy senior citizens and providers of dementia care in Germany. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:908-917. [PMID: 33355958 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Engaging stakeholders in health-related research is becoming commonplace internationally and is increasingly considered best research practice to improve care management services. Many different groups have a stake in dementia care, but the evidence base for stakeholder involvement in dementia research is still small. The aim of this study was to explore views of two major stakeholder groups of dementia care in research priority setting and how they would want to be involved in dementia research. Group discussions were carried out with 47 participants divided into two groups: (a) healthy senior citizens and (b) providers of dementia care. Ensuing responses were analysed using descriptive content analysis. The main research interest of both groups was similar, but senior citizens and providers of dementia care varied in how they perceived the roles of researchers and stakeholders involved. Groups also differed with respect to the amount of time they would be willing to invest into research. The results contribute to our knowledge of group-specific stakeholder priorities and attitudes regarding participatory involvement in dementia research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Kowe
- Department "Ageing of Individuals and Society" (AGIS), Interdisciplinary Faculty, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Stefanie Köhler
- Rostock University Medical Center & German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Rostock, Germany
| | - Olga A Klein
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Rostock, Germany
| | - Corinna Lüthje
- Institut für Medienforschung, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Judith Kalzendorf
- Rostock University Medical Center & German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Rostock, Germany
| | - Sarah Weschke
- Department "Ageing of Individuals and Society" (AGIS), Interdisciplinary Faculty, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Stefan Teipel
- Rostock University Medical Center, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald & Centre for Transdisciplinary Neurosciences Rostock, Rostock, Germany
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Neubert L, Gottschalk S, König HH, Brettschneider C. Dementia care-giving from a family network perspective in Germany: A typology. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:579-591. [PMID: 32939908 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Sustaining informal care-giving for people living with dementia (PWD) is a common objective of societies worldwide. Families can contribute substantially to the support of care-giving relatives. However, a deeper understanding of the impact of informal care-giving for PWD on family life is needed. Interviewing of multiple family network members-in addition to the primary carer-provides more insight into familial contexts of care-giving. This pilot study aims to explore how informal carers reconcile dementia care-giving and family life from a family network perspective. Therefore, we conducted 14 narrative interviews with family carers from seven care-giving networks in Germany, which we interpreted using the documentary method. The yielded relational typology describes five types of family carers of PWD. These types reflect the way the families deal with dementia care-giving based on the interrelation between relationship quality and the distribution of care-giving tasks within the family. Depending on the constellation of this interrelationship, family carers either experience care as a joint project, as co-operation with external support or within the family, as disappointment or as a predicament without alternatives. Finally, if the care-giving tasks are not shared, or if the distribution is perceived as unequal, relationship break downs can occur, especially in family ties that are already strained. However, joint care-giving and strong ties can also bring the family closer together and enhance care experiences. Care professionals and social workers should be aware of the family network of dementia carers and support the development of a sense of family unity. This can contribute to positive care experiences among family carers and thus increase the maintenance of informal dementia care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Neubert
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sophie Gottschalk
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Brettschneider
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Fetherstonhaugh D, Rayner JA, Solly K, McAuliffe L. 'You become their advocate': The experiences of family carers as advocates for older people with dementia living in residential aged care. J Clin Nurs 2021; 30:676-686. [PMID: 33295051 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to identify features of well-performing residential aged care services (RACS) as experienced by family carers. BACKGROUND Family carers can have an integral role in residential aged care providing social support and are well-placed to engage with staff and monitor care. DESIGN A qualitative descriptive design was used. Semi-structured face-to-face and telephone interviews were conducted with family carers of current or past residents of Australian RACS between November 2018 and January 2019. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically. RESULTS Rather than reporting features of well-performing RACS, participants shared stories of sub-standard care, dysfunctional management and poor resident-staff-family interactions. An overarching theme emerged of 'having to be an advocate' for residents' needs, which covered four major categories: organisational accountability (including transparency and individualised care), good communication, connection and trust. Combined, these constitute what carers perceive are the necessary conditions for determining the features of a well-performing RACS. CONCLUSION Family carers need to feel confident and trust RACS staff when they hand over the role of carer for their relative with dementia. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE This study provides insight into the needs and challenges of family carers when they relinquish the care of an older relative with dementia. Strategies to build confidence and trust between RACS and family carers are essential. Aged care nurses can play a pivotal role to support this through the development of open communication and relational connections with residents and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre Fetherstonhaugh
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Jo-Anne Rayner
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Kane Solly
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Linda McAuliffe
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Houghton C, Dowling M, Meskell P, Hunter A, Gardner H, Conway A, Treweek S, Sutcliffe K, Noyes J, Devane D, Nicholas JR, Biesty LM. Factors that impact on recruitment to randomised trials in health care: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 10:MR000045. [PMID: 33026107 PMCID: PMC8078544 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.mr000045.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Randomised trials (also referred to as 'randomised controlled trials' or 'trials') are the optimal way to minimise bias in evaluating the effects of competing treatments, therapies and innovations in health care. It is important to achieve the required sample size for a trial, otherwise trialists may not be able to draw conclusive results leading to research waste and raising ethical questions about trial participation. The reasons why potential participants may accept or decline participation are multifaceted. Yet, the evidence of effectiveness of interventions to improve recruitment to trials is not substantial and fails to recognise these individual decision-making processes. It is important to synthesise the experiences and perceptions of those invited to participate in randomised trials to better inform recruitment strategies. OBJECTIVES To explore potential trial participants' views and experiences of the recruitment process for participation. The specific objectives are to describe potential participants' perceptions and experiences of accepting or declining to participate in trials, to explore barriers and facilitators to trial participation, and to explore to what extent barriers and facilitators identified are addressed by strategies to improve recruitment evaluated in previous reviews of the effects of interventions including a Cochrane Methodology Review. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Library, Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Epistemonikos, LILACS, PsycINFO, ORRCA, and grey literature sources. We ran the most recent set of searches for which the results were incorporated into the review in July 2017. SELECTION CRITERIA We included qualitative and mixed-methods studies (with an identifiable qualitative component) that explored potential trial participants' experiences and perceptions of being invited to participate in a trial. We excluded studies that focused only on recruiters' perspectives, and trials solely involving children under 18 years, or adults who were assessed as having impaired mental capacity. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Five review authors independently assessed the titles, abstracts and full texts identified by the search. We used the CART (completeness, accuracy, relevance, timeliness) criteria to exclude studies that had limited focus on the phenomenon of interest. We used QSR NVivo to extract and manage the data. We assessed methodological limitations using the Critical Skills Appraisal Programme (CASP) tool. We used thematic synthesis to analyse and synthesise the evidence. This provided analytical themes and a conceptual model. We used the GRADE-CERQual (Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) approach to assess our confidence in each finding. Our findings were integrated with two previous intervention effectiveness reviews by juxtaposing the quantitative and qualitative findings in a matrix. MAIN RESULTS We included 29 studies (published in 30 papers) in our synthesis. Twenty-two key findings were produced under three broad themes (with six subthemes) to capture the experience of being invited to participate in a trial and making the decision whether to participate. Most of these findings had moderate to high confidence. We identified factors from the trial itself that influenced participation. These included how trial information was communicated, and elements of the trial such as the time commitment that might be considered burdensome. The second theme related to personal factors such as how other people can influence the individual's decision; and how a personal understanding of potential harms and benefits could impact on the decision. Finally, the potential benefits of participation were found to be key to the decision to participate, namely personal benefits such as access to new treatments, but also the chance to make a difference and help others. The conceptual model we developed presents the decision-making process as a gauge and the factors that influence whether the person will, or will not, take part. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This qualitative evidence synthesis has provided comprehensive insight into the complexity of factors that influence a person's decision whether to participate in a trial. We developed key questions that trialists can ask when developing their recruitment strategy. In addition, our conceptual model emphasises the need for participant-centred approaches to recruitment. We demonstrated moderate to high level confidence in our findings, which in some way can be attributed to the large volume of highly relevant studies in this field. We recommend that these insights be used to direct or influence or underpin future recruitment strategies that are developed in a participant-driven way that ultimately improves trial conduct and reduces research waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Houghton
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Maura Dowling
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Pauline Meskell
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Andrew Hunter
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Heidi Gardner
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Aislinn Conway
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Shaun Treweek
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Katy Sutcliffe
- Department of Social Science, Social Science Research Unit, UCL Institute of Education, London, UK
| | - Jane Noyes
- Centre for Health-Related Research, Fron Heulog, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Declan Devane
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Jane R Nicholas
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Linda M Biesty
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Leslie M, Gray RP, Khayatzadeh-Mahani A. What is 'care quality' and can it be improved by information and communication technology? A typology of family caregivers' perspectives. Scand J Caring Sci 2020; 35:220-232. [PMID: 32168399 DOI: 10.1111/scs.12837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With governments worldwide reducing their involvement in the provision of institutional long-term elder care, community-based family caregivers (FCs) have become a key element in policies aimed at improving the quality of healthcare systems and maintaining their financial sustainability. This paper uses data from focus groups with FCs providing care to older adults to describe their approaches to and priorities for achieving care quality and sustainability as they work with formal health and social care systems. It describes FCs' views on information and communications technology (ICT) as potential supports for achieving these care quality and sustainability goals. METHODS We held 10 focus groups from May 2017 to August 2018 and recruited 25 FCs through a mix of convenience and snowball sampling strategies. We employed an inductive approach and used qualitative thematic content analysis methods to examine and interpret the resulting data. We used NVIVO 12 software for data analysis. RESULTS Quality of care - as delivered by both FCs themselves, and formal health and social care systems - was a major preoccupation for our participants. They saw communications quality as a key aspect of the broader concept of care quality. Our data analysis produced a typology of communications quality from the FC perspective. Analysis of our data also revealed ICT development opportunities and available products in key areas. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the formal care system providers could be more caregiver-oriented in their communications by engaging FCs in the decision-making process and allowing them to express their own concerns and goals. The implication of our findings for those seeking to develop policies and ICT products in support of FCs is that these should focus on human relationships and seek to expand facilitative communications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles Leslie
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Akram Khayatzadeh-Mahani
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Health Services Management Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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10
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Leslie M, Gray RP, Eales J, Fast J, Magnaye A, Khayatzadeh-Mahani A. The care capacity goals of family carers and the role of technology in achieving them. BMC Geriatr 2020; 20:52. [PMID: 32102654 PMCID: PMC7045442 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-020-1455-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As global populations age, governments have come to rely heavily on family carers (FCs) to care for older adults and reduce the demands made of formal health and social care systems. Under increasing pressure, sustainability of FC's unpaid care work has become a pressing issue. Using qualitative data, this paper explores FCs' care-related work goals, and describes how those goals do, or do not, link to technology. METHODS We employed a sequential mixed-method approach using focus groups followed by an online survey about FCs' goals. We held 10 focus groups and recruited 25 FCs through a mix of convenience and snowball sampling strategies. Carer organizations helped us recruit 599 FCs from across Canada to complete an online survey. Participants' responses to an open-ended question in the survey were included in our qualitative analysis. An inductive approach was employed using qualitative thematic content analysis methods to examine and interpret the resulting data. We used NVIVO 12 software for data analysis. RESULTS We identified two care quality improvement goals of FCs providing care to older adults: enhancing and safeguarding their caregiving capacity. To enhance their capacity to care, FCs sought: 1) foreknowledge about their care recipients' changing condition, and 2) improved navigation of existing support systems. To safeguard their own wellbeing, and so to preserve their capacity to care, FCs sought to develop coping strategies as well as opportunities for mentorship and socialization. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that a paradigm shift is needed to reframe caregiving from a current deficit frame focused on failures and limitations (burden of care) towards a more empowering frame (sustainability and resiliency). The fact that FCs are seeking strategies to enhance and safeguard their capacities to provide care means they are approaching their unpaid care work from the perspective of resilience. Their goals and technology suggestions imply a shift from understanding care as a source of 'burden' towards a more 'resilient' and 'sustainable' model of caregiving. Our case study findings show that technology can assist in fostering this resiliency but that it may well be limited to the role of an intermediary that connects FCs to information, supports and peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles Leslie
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Jacquie Eales
- Department of Human Ecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Janet Fast
- Department of Human Ecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrew Magnaye
- Department of Human Ecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Akram Khayatzadeh-Mahani
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Health Services Management Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Leslie M, Khayatzadeh-Mahani A, MacKean G. Recruitment of caregivers into health services research: lessons from a user-centred design study. RESEARCH INVOLVEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT 2019; 5:17. [PMID: 31139432 PMCID: PMC6528243 DOI: 10.1186/s40900-019-0150-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With patient and public engagement in many aspects of the healthcare system becoming an imperative, the recruitment of patients and members of the public into service and research roles has emerged as a challenge. The existing literature carries few reports of the methods - successful and unsuccessful - that researchers engaged in user-centred design (UCD) projects are using to recruit participants as equal partners in co-design research. This paper uses the recruitment experiences of a specific UCD project to provide a road map for other investigators, and to make general recommendations for funding agencies interested in supporting co-design research. METHODS We used a case study methodology and employed Nominal Group Technique (NGT) and Focus Group discussions to collect data. We recruited 25 family caregivers. RESULTS Employing various strategies to recruit unpaid family caregivers in a UCD project aimed at co-designing an assistive technology for family caregivers, we found that recruitment through caregiver agencies is the most efficient (least costly) and effective mechanism. The nature of this recruitment work - the time and compromises it requires - has, we believe, implications for funding agencies who need to understand that working with caregivers agencies, requires a considerable amount of time for building relationships, aligning values, and establishing trust. CONCLUSIONS In addition to providing adaptable strategies, the paper contributes to discussions surrounding how projects seeking effective, meaningful, and ethical patient and public engagement are planned and funded. We call for more evidence to explore effective mechanisms to recruit family caregivers into qualitative research. We also call for reports of successful strategies that other researchers have employed to recruit and retain family caregivers in their research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles Leslie
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta Canada
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Downtown Campus, 906 8th Avenue S.W., 5th Floor, Calgary, Alberta T2P 1H9 Canada
| | - Akram Khayatzadeh-Mahani
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Downtown Campus, 906 8th Avenue S.W., 5th Floor, Calgary, Alberta T2P 1H9 Canada
- Health Services Management Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Gail MacKean
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta Canada
- IMAGINE Citizens Collaborating for Health, Calgary, Alberta Canada
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Dam AE, Christie HL, Smeets CM, van Boxtel MP, Verhey FR, de Vugt ME. Process evaluation of a social support platform 'Inlife' for caregivers of people with dementia. Internet Interv 2018; 15:18-27. [PMID: 30510911 PMCID: PMC6257912 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Informal caregivers of persons with dementia have an increased risk of facing social isolation. Online social media interventions might offer a new opportunity to increase access to social support. An online social support platform, 'Inlife', was developed and launched in the Netherlands to enhance social support, positive interactions and information sharing in informal support networks. OBJECTIVE A process evaluation was performed to evaluate the internal and external validity of the Inlife intervention. METHODS Implementation, sampling and intervention quality were evaluated by both qualitative and quantitative methods. Analyses were performed using descriptive statistics and inductive content analysis. Analyses were conducted following participants' completion of the intervention after 16 weeks. RESULTS The overall participation rate in the study was 27% (96/351). The Inlife intervention was generally well-received by the primary caregivers. Inlife facilitated empowerment, openness, involvement, and efficient care organization. Still, adherence was not optimal for all Inlife users. Determinants for Inlife use were identified on the level of the Inlife innovation, the users, and the socio-political context. CONCLUSIONS Inlife was evaluated as a useful instrument for efficient central care coordination and mutual involvement. This study emphasizes that the personal attitudes of the Inlife users to seek and provide support warrant attention, next to the characteristics of the actual Inlife innovation for optimal intervention uptake. Online and offline support might be integrated to raise awareness of caregiver social support needs and attitudes and provide insight into caregivers' available social capital. TRIAL REGISTRATION Dutch trial register NTR6131, Registered on 20 October 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alieske E.H. Dam
- Corresponding author at: Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology/School for Mental Health and Neuroscience/Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Dr. Tanslaan 12 (level 3
- room 3G3.058), P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Hannah L. Christie
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology/Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Claudia M.J. Smeets
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology/Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Martin P.J. van Boxtel
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology/Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Frans R.J. Verhey
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology/Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marjolein E. de Vugt
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology/Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Nuño MM, Gillen DL, Dosanjh KK, Brook J, Elashoff D, Ringman JM, Grill JD. Attitudes toward clinical trials across the Alzheimer's disease spectrum. Alzheimers Res Ther 2017; 9:81. [PMID: 28978335 PMCID: PMC5628443 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-017-0311-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has revealed that manifest Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia is preceded by preclinical and prodromal phases during which pathology is accumulating but function remains intact. This understanding and concern that disease-modifying interventions initiated at the dementia stage may come too late in the neurodegenerative process to be successful has led to a paradigm shift in AD clinical trials. AD trials now enroll patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and persons with no cognitive symptoms. Trial designs are similar to those enrolling dementia participants. We set out to test the hypothesis that attitudes towards trial design features differ among different potential AD trial populations. METHODS We sent a survey composed of 37 items assessing specific trial elements to 246 cognitively normal, MCI, and AD dementia participants at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC), from whom we received 91 responses (37 cognitively normal, 32 MCI, and 22 dementia). To quantify willingness to enroll, we created three composite scenarios by summing responses and fitting proportional odds models with a binary outcome variable for whether patients were highly willing to participate in low-, moderate-, or high-risk and burden trials. RESULTS MCI participants less frequently correctly self-identified their diagnoses than those with dementia or normal cognition. Compared to dementia patients, the odds of participating in a low-risk, low-burden trial were 12% lower for MCI patients (odds ratio (OR) = 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.23-3.29) and 70% lower (OR = 0.30, 95% CI 0.08-1.09) for cognitively normal participants. With increasing risk and burden, willingness to enroll decreased and the gap in relative willingness between diagnostic groups increased. In the medium-risk, medium-burden scenario, the estimated OR was 0.64 (95% CI 0.17-2.40) for MCI and 0.21 for the cognitively normal (95% CI 0.06-0.77). In the high-risk, high-burden scenario, the estimated OR indicated reduced willingness for MCI (OR = 0.27, 95% CI 0.06-1.15) and cognitively normal respondents (OR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.03-0.54). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that AD trials enrolling predementia populations, especially those requiring frequent visits and implementing biomarker testing procedures, may encounter challenges to enrollment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Nuño
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Daniel L Gillen
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kulwant K Dosanjh
- Division of General Internal Medicine/Health Services Research, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jenny Brook
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David Elashoff
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - John M Ringman
- Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joshua D Grill
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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