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Older people’s perspectives on frailty screening in primary care settings – a citizens’ jury study

Authors :
Annette Braunack-Mayer
Jackie M. Street
Caitlin Reader
Lesley M. O’Brien
Elsa Dent
Belinda Fabrianesi
Agnieszka Chudecka
Renuka Visvanathan
Justin Beilby
Michael Lawless
Rachel C Ambagtsheer
Source :
BMC Primary Care, Vol 25, Iss 1, Pp 1-11 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
BMC, 2024.

Abstract

Abstract Background As the world’s population ages, there is a growing concern with frailty, marked by reduced strength and greater vulnerability to stress. Overcoming obstacles like reluctance towards screening methods in this process is crucial for identifying and addressing frailty at an early stage. Understanding older people’s perspectives can help adapt screening procedures in primary healthcare settings. Methods A citizens’ jury, comprising 14 purposively selected members reflecting community diversity, was conducted in South Australia to explore older adults’ opinions on how and when frailty screenings occur within primary care settings. Participants engaged in discussions and deliberations informed by expert testimonies and evidence-based resources. This deliberative inclusive research method supported jurors to understand the evidence and contribute informed insights into health policy. Results The jury systematically addressed several key concerns, including the major issues surrounding frailty screening, its benefits and potential harms, and measures to prevent screening bias and misdiagnosis. The outcome was 17 recommendations within the themes of screening age and frequency, consent, access and setting, communication and public awareness, and resources and cost. Conclusions The study highlights the value of including older adults in the decision-making about health interventions aimed at them. The method proved effective in capturing a spectrum of community values and preferences, offering actionable recommendations for refining health screening policies to better address the needs and expectations of older adults.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
27314553
Volume :
25
Issue :
1
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
BMC Primary Care
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.7975aae6544d9b944ae1f627df3569
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-024-02626-8