Mixed Methods in Geriatrics and Gerontology Research

Mixed methodsMixed methods researchResearch is defined as the collection, analysis, and integration of both quantitative data (e.g., outcomeOutcomes of a randomized trial, such as decrease in depressionDepression score) and qualitativeQualitative data (e.g., observationsObservation or interviews about the experience of persons with depressionDepression) to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a researchResearch problem than might be obtained through quantitative or qualitativeQualitative approaches alone. Because mixed methodsMixed methods researchResearch designs place high value on the stories behind the numbers—both in exploratory designs where the experiences and insights of the community under study inform the quantitative investigation, and in explanatory designs where they illuminate the quantitative data—mixed methodsMixed methods are especially appropriate in studying the problems of older adultsOlder adults and caregiversCaregivers. The goal of this chapter is to introduce the concept of mixed methodsMixed methods as an approach for researchResearch in Geriatrics and Gerontology. We will discuss (1) why an investigator might consider using mixed methodsMixed methods; (2) basic and complex mixed methodsMixed methods design; (3) examples of mixed methodsMixed methods projects, drawing upon our own researchResearch; and, (4) challenges in carrying out mixed methodsMixed methods researchResearch.