Research Advocacy Training Program Benefits Diverse Older Adults in Participation, Self-Efficacy and Attitudes toward Research

Background: Developing a Research Participation Enhancement and Advocacy Training Program for Diverse Seniors (DREAMS) is a two-part health education (part 1 [DP1]) and research advocacy training (part 2 [DP2]) program grounded in CBPR principles designed to address underrepresentation of socioeconomically disadvantaged and/or minority older adults in research.

Objectives: We examine the effects of DREAMS on health literacy, psychosocial function, beliefs/attitudes toward research, and self-efficacy in diverse older adults age 65 and older who completed only part 1 of DREAMS (n = 51) versus those who completed both parts 1 and 2 (DREAMS Team [DT]; n = 24). We hypothesized that benefits would be observed in both groups, with greater benefits seen among DT completers versus those who completed only part 1.

Methods: Participants completed pre- and post-course questionnaires, including a satisfaction survey. DREAMS versus DT data were analyzed and compared using t tests, χ2 tests, analyses of variance/repeated measures analyses of variance, and Mann–Whitney U tests as appropriate. Themes were identified from open-ended survey questions and provide context for quantitative data.

Results: Findings showed significant group × time interaction in depression, participation/autonomy, and physical composite scores as well as trends toward improved attitudes toward research participation (P = .07), decreased depression (P < .001), and increased participation (P = .03) of the DT group. Results from the satisfaction questionnaire indicated that both programs were well-received.

Conclusions: Findings provide strong evidence of DREAMS and particularly the DT’s success in achieving our key objectives.