Sample bias in caregiving research
Article Abstract:
In any research study, the method by which participants are chosen may influence the results. However, little attention has been paid to this important consideration of experimental design in studies of the aged. In studies of caregivers, it is likely that time demands and restricted mobility alter the selection of caregivers who are able to participate in research. To determine if this is likely, the differences between Alzheimer's disease caregivers assessed at home (46 people) and at university hospitals (63 people) were evaluated. Caregivers who were studied at home spent more time in caregiving activities, had to cope with more problem behaviors, and tended to have impaired family members with greater personality changes. This group of caregivers seemed to be more depressed, although this finding was not consistent by all measures. Similarly, caregivers, who would not participate in a study concerning the use of respite care, provided care to more impaired patients than the caregivers who agreed to be in the study. These findings suggest that, to obtain the most representative study populations, studies of the aged, specifically of caregivers, should offer home assessment. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journals of Gerontology
Subject: Seniors
ISSN: 0022-1422
Year: 1990
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Conjugal support: factor structure for older husbands and wives
Article Abstract:
The factor structure of social support among older persons was determined using a sample of 298 older marital dyads. Specifically, the viability of conjugal support as a couple's construct and the dimensions of social support within the marital dyad were investigated. Results showed that conjugal support should be identified as an individual husband and wife and not as a couple construct. Moreover, instrumental support, emotional support and confiding were the dimensions of the conjugal support construct.
Publication Name: Journals of Gerontology
Subject: Seniors
ISSN: 0022-1422
Year: 1993
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Patterns of nonresponse in a national survey of elderly Japanese
Article Abstract:
The patterns of unit nonresponse to studies among older adults in Japan were analyzed using maximum likelihood regression anaysis. Older men in large urban areas had a higher probability of nonresponse as compared to women and those with ages from 60 to 70 years. Analysis of groupings according to reasons for nonresponse such as refusal, not-at-home, and other reasons, did not show any patterns.
Publication Name: Journals of Gerontology
Subject: Seniors
ISSN: 0022-1422
Year: 1993
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