Researchers' Perspectives on the Role of Study Partners in Dementia Research

This study examined researchers’ perspectives on the role of study partners in dementia research. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with 17 researchers (principal investigators, study coordinators, and research nurses) at two academic research sites. According to researchers, study partners either make or help make research enrollment and post-enrollment decisions, serve as knowledgeable informants for the participants, manage the logistics that enable participants to comply with a study’s protocol, and provide comfort and encouragement for the participant to engage in and complete a study. Researchers described ideal qualities of study partners as being able to provide reliable information, being dependable and adherent to the protocol, and not expecting a benefit. They also reported that study partners may face both practical and emotional challenges during research participation; as benefits, they derive dementia-related education, caregiver support, and satisfaction from their involvement in research.

Black BS, Taylor H, Rabins PV, Karlawish J. Researchers' perspectives on the role of study partners in dementia research . International Psychogeriatrics 2014;26(10):1649-57.

7302ca768174e46d0f7fef78418e0a69 Recruit & Retain Participants 2019-01-14T00:00:00Z Caregivers Research Articles