Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Research Participation Among Older African Americans

Abstract

COVID-19 represents the newest health disparity faced by African Americans (AA). This study assessed the impact of COVID-19 on barriers and willingness to participate in research among older AAs. An online survey was sent to a nationwide sample of 65- to 85-year-old AAs between January and February 2021. Constant comparison analysis was used to extract themes. A total of 624 older AAs completed the survey. Approximately 40% of participants were willing to engage in virtual or in-person research. Of the individuals who were willing to participate in research, >50% were willing to engage in a spectrum of activities from group discussions to group exercise. Research participation themes related to logistics, technology, pandemic fears, and privacy or security. Older AAs face new research barriers that can be overcome through data use transparency and technology resources. This information can be used to encourage dementia research engagement among older AAs despite the pandemic.

Dementia and COVID-19 among Older African American Adults: A Scoping Review of Healthcare Access and Resources

“…Cultural values and beliefs regarding dementia and the care of older people differ. Therefore, there is a need for cultural sensitivity in the provision of person-centered dementia care for older African American adults [ 45 ]. The absence of close observation after hospitalization and early intervention after diagnosis was prevalent among older African American adults [ 26 , 38 ].…”

“…Historically and contemporarily, older African Americans have lower acceptance rates for care [ 4 , 5 , 36 , 38 , 44 , 46 ]. They also may find healthcare facilities less approachable and trustworthy [ 25 , 33 , 36 , 38 , 44 , 45 ], further limiting healthcare service usage during a pandemic due to a lack of resources [ 29 , 36 , 39 , 44 , 46 ]. This suggests that prevention efforts should include strategies and knowledge through the dissemination of appropriate information to limit SARS-CoV-2 exposure and transmission in Black communities, especially in older black adults, as a step toward reducing COVID-19-related racial inequities [ 38 ].…”