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The challenges of conducting focus-group research among Asian older adults

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 March 2011

KALYANI K. MEHTA
KALYANI K. MEHTA*
Affiliation:
Department of Social Work, University of Singapore, Singapore.
*
Address for correspondence: Kalyani Mehta, Department of Social Work, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Singapore, Blk AS3 #04-08, 3 Arts Link, Singapore 117570. E-mail: kalyani30003@yahoo.com
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Abstract

The paper demonstrates the particular value of focus groups as a data collection method in studies of older people with particular reference to those living in large cities in Asia. The strengths and limitations of focus groups as a modality of qualitative research are discussed and a case study is presented. Some of the method's strengths derive from the synergy of the interactions among elders with a shared history and lived experiences. Focus-group exchanges have the potential for inter-personal learning and reminiscence benefits. One difficulty with the method, however, is that many Asian people are inhibited about sharing personal problems in a group context. Drawing from a number of empirical studies based in Singapore, the challenges of conducting focus groups with older participants are detailed and appropriate ways of addressing them considered. The article elaborates on the author's use of software such as NVivo to expedite the analysis of large volumes of transcribed data, and on the retrieval of relevant quotes. Software is useful in extracting themes from codes, as well as allowing the researcher to appreciate the links between codes. Ethical issues such as confidentiality, cultural sensitivities such as language and respect for religion and tradition, and lessons learnt from conducting research using the group setting are discussed. Culturally relevant responses to these challenges are offered which could be useful for future researchers conducting focus groups in Asia.

Keywords

focus groupsolder peopleAsiamethodologyelderly
Type
Articles
Information
Ageing & Society , Volume 31 , Issue 3: Methodologies for Ageing Populations , April 2011 , pp. 408 - 421
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2011

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