Challenges and Motivators to Conducting Research with Long-Term Care Facility Residents with Dementia in Ireland

Abstract Background The number of long-term care facility (LTCF) residents with dementia (RwD) in Ireland is projected to rise significantly over the next two decades. With an increasingly complex and high-dependency resident profile, LTCFs face mounting pressures to uphold care standards. Innovative, evidence-based solutions are urgently needed; however, recruiting LTCFs and RwD into research remains a persistent challenge. This study explored key barriers and facilitators to conducting research with this vulnerable population. Methods A pragmatic, mixed-methods approach was employed, comprising a national survey (n = 200) and follow-up interviews (n = 18) with LTCF managers, directors of nursing, care staff, residents with dementia, and family caregivers. Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) was embedded throughout the research process. Results Key challenges across participants included inaccessible or complex study language and distrust of the researcher. Challenges identified for care staff specifically, included time constraints and disruption to daily routines. Motivators for participation included access to useful information, belief in the value of research, and clearly articulated study aims. Professional development was a strong motivator for care staff. Financial incentives were not identified as a strong motivator across participant groups. Conclusion By identifying key challenges and motivators to recruitment of LTCFs and RwD to research, these findings will inform more efficient, targeted and cost-effective design of targeted interventions to better address the specialised needs of RwD.