Involving older people in community-based research: Developing a guiding framework for researchers and community organisations

The purpose of this paper is to outline the development of a guiding framework for both researchers and community organisations seeking to involve older people in research. Such a framework is needed to facilitate good quality, multidisciplinary research that can be used to inform policy and practice responses to the challenges of ageing. There is increased recognition that involving older people in the research process can lead to increased benefits for all involved. The guidelines outlined below put forward the following six principles: (i) acknowledge research as a process; (ii) clarify roles and levels of involvement; (iii) communicate effectively; (iv) recognise different expectations; (v) recognise difference; and (vi) ensure representativeness and diversity. These guidelines are now being promoted through the ARC/NHMRC Research Network in Ageing Well and collaborating stakeholder organisations that will be working together to implement these principles in future research involving older people.