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Alzheimer's Caregiver Focus Groups

Abstract The use of qualitative research strategies is becoming increasingly recognized as most appropriate for certain types of inquiry in gerontological care. Program planners need information from the perspectives of current and potential consumers to ensure the delivery of appropriate services and educational programs. Using focus groups is one systematic, research-based method of obtaining qualitative data, by eliciting perspectives of the targeted population on issues of concern through structured, facilitated discussion. This paper describes each step involved in applying focus group methodology for a local Alzheimer's Association chapter and presents an example of the yield and how it can be used to inform local educational and other program planning. Results provided databased guidance for the chapter's development of educational offerings to caregivers and agency staff. Thus, the use of focus groups provided a qualitative, research-based, systematic way to directly elicit caregivers' perceptions of important issues for use in program planning.