The University of Queensland are seeking people to help design a frailty research program that people can and want to participate in. They are looking for older people and carers/family members of older people from anywhere in Australia to contribute to this research.
About the project
This study will compare ways to support older people to participate in frailty programs using a health coach and online information. The programs aim to help older people to optimise their nutrition, exercise, medications and social supports, as we know that this is critical to support healthy ageing. This is an Australia-wide study led by researchers at the University of Queensland. The project is funded for 5 years (2022 – 2026).
Including consumers in the design of the research is important, as they can teach researchers what is most important to them and how their research can support this to benefit older people and their carers/family members.
How you can be involved
They are looking for people to help in the following ways:
- Reviewing information to be provided to study participants about frailty and the research. This may include information sheets, brochures or website content.
- Advising on the most user-friendly assessments and surveys to measure changes in health and function. For example, are people likely to complete online surveys?
- Advising on study procedures that make it easy for people to sign up and participate in the study. For example, the best timing and place to do the assessments.
- Co-designing elements of the frailty program. For example, designing a health coach role (how and how often will they contact people?) how best to involve carers in the program
- Contributing to other frailty and ageing research projects that we are planning in future. Some of these projects will aim to improve hospital care.
There is flexibility in how and when you are involved. This may be a one-off meeting or workshop, or involvement in multiple activities. You may like to meet with them in-person (if you live in Brisbane) or contribute via online meetings, telephone or email communication.
There is no need for any prior experience of frailty or research. However, it is important that you have an appreciation of the challenges faced by older people (from a range of backgrounds and ‘walks of life’) when participating in research or health programs.
Remuneration for your involvement
You can be paid for your time in the form of an hourly payment ($46/hr). This can be ransferred to your bank account or a gift card of your choice. They will pay for parking or travel costs if you need to attend in-person meetings.
If you are interested please register your interest via this brief online survey or via email: fittest@uq.edu.au
If you are unsure whether this opportunity is right for you, please leave your details in the survey or email: fittest@uq.edu.au and they can contact you to discuss further.