Anna E. Mathews

Methods and Management of the Healthy Brain Study: A Large Multisite Qualitative Research Project

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To describe processes used in the Healthy Brain project to manage data collection, coding, and data distribution in a large qualitative project, conducted by researchers at 9 universities in 9 states. DESIGN AND METHODS Project management protocols included: (a) managing audiotapes and surveys to ensure data confidentiality, data tracking and distribution; (b) managing qualitative data to ensure the accuracy and confidentiality of transcription; (c) training in qualitative methods and use of qualitative software; and (d) managing participant survey data and analysis. RESULTS The project team coded and managed qualitative and survey data for 69 focus groups with more than 500 participants. Multiple interactive training sessions in qualitative data analysis and use of qualitative software (ATLAS.ti) were conducted. To develop a codebook, 2 teams used an open-coding process to identify codes and develop definitions; 2 team members integrated and conceptually organized these results into an initial codebook. For the audio-recordings from each research site, 2 or 3 team members hand coded 1 transcript and calculated interrater agreement (.80 or higher). IMPLICATIONS Using clear protocols, participatory training sessions, team-based coding, and frequent communication among team members via e-mail and regular in-person meetings promotes effective management of large-scale qualitative research projects.

What Are The Top-Circulating Magazines in the United States Telling Older Adults About Cognitive Health?

There is growing evidence that healthy behaviors may promote cognitive health. The behaviors include physical activity, heart-healthy diets, and social engagement. Popular print media helps disseminate health information. This study examines the content focused on cognitive health in 5 top—circulating magazines marketed to older people in the United States. All pages (29 881 pages) of each magazine published in 2006 and 2007 were searched. There were 84 articles on cognitive health. Few were by health or science writers. Of the 58 articles on prevention, the contents focused primarily on diet and multiple behaviors, with less on physical activity or social engagement. Less than 20% provided resources to help readers obtain further information. Articles focused on physical activity, with information directing readers to credible resources, and by writers with health or science backgrounds, could enhance the quality of cognitive health communication in popular media.

Characteristics of the Healthy Brain Project Sample: Representing Diversity Among Study Participants

PURPOSE Description of study participants and documentation of the desired diversity in the Prevention Research Centers Healthy Aging Research Networks Workgroup on Promoting Cognitive Health large multisite study designed to examine attitudes about brain health, behaviors associated with its maintenance, and information-receiving preferences among a diverse group of older Americans, to provide a foundation for developing health promotion interventions. DESIGN AND METHODS Four hundred fifty older adults in 55 focus groups at 9 sites completed a common participant survey. Using descriptive statistics, the analysis compares participant characteristics (age, sex, and race/ethnicity; rural-urban location; income and education; social activity; physical activity, nutrition, and body mass index; and self-reported measures of cognitive function) across sites and with national data. RESULTS Comparisons across sites document the rich diversity of the sample. IMPLICATIONS The substantial representation of a variety of demographic groups suggests that the qualitative data obtained in the focus group research provide a useful basis for developing well-targeted communication interventions for promoting brain health in diverse populations.