Study of Muscle, Mobility, and Aging: Lessons Learned Recruiting Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Kennedy Kimberly, Kritchevsky Stephen, Nicklas Barbara, Newman Anne, Glynn Nancy, Strotmeyer Elsa, Danielson Michelle
Primary Institution: Wake Forest University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What strategies are effective for recruiting older adults for a study on muscle biology and mobility decline?
Conclusion
The study successfully recruited a large cohort of older adults for an intensive examination of muscle biology and mobility.
Supporting Evidence
- The study exceeded its recruitment goal of 875 participants.
- Direct mail postcards were the most successful advertising strategy.
- A total of 210 information sessions were held with an average attendance of ~15 individuals per session.
Takeaway
The researchers found good ways to get older people to join their study about muscles and walking.
Methodology
The study was observational and involved phone screenings, information sessions, and assessments of gait speed.
Limitations
The study's recruitment period partially overlapped with the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have affected participation.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 70 and older, free from life-threatening diseases, and able to walk a certain distance.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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