Engaging With a Participatory Research Team: Evaluation of Involving Older Co-Researchers With Experience of Falls in the SeFallED Project.

INTRODUCTION

There is increasing emphasis on the involvement of older patients in research. A comprehensive and systematic evaluation of this involvement, using established tools, is essential to ensure its effectiveness and impact. This study aims to describe this involvement of older individuals in a geriatric research project and to examine its outcome and impact.

METHODS

A participatory research team (PRT) consisting of a heterogeneous group of older adults with experience of falls was set up. The public and patient engagement evaluation tool (PPEET) was used as a means of evaluation. Process documentation was also used for evaluation. All data were analysed descriptively.

RESULTS

Eight older individuals were selected for the PRT, and 29 meetings were held during the 3-year project period. Due to health-related absences, three new PRT members were admitted after the first half of the project. The positive atmosphere at the meetings was emphasised. Nevertheless, at the initial stage, there was some ambiguity regarding the purpose. The PRT had an influence on various research phases (e.g., design of the focus groups). All persons involved emphasised the supportive contextual factors, but in the beginning PRT members highlighted the need for more information.

CONCLUSION

The PRT is a promising strategy for involving older people; however, health-related absences must be considered. A personal approach is a crucial factor for PRT members (e.g., time in meetings to share own experiences). The PRT had a multifaceted influence on the project, with a heightened emphasis on public relations. The contextual factors (e.g., infrastructure) were supportive, but greater emphasis should be placed on information structures for PRT members in future projects.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: A PRT consisting of a heterogeneous group of older individuals with a history of falls was involved throughout the entire project duration. All four members who were part of the PRT at the end of the project read and revised this paper.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: German clinical trial identifier: DRKS00025949.