Study partners' views on remuneration in longitudinal Alzheimer's disease research.
Erin D Solomon, Matthew Gabel, Semere Bekena, Spondita Goswami, Krista L Moulder, John C Morris, Jessica Mozersky
Abstract
Open AccessIntroduction: Recruiting and retaining participants in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research poses a consistent challenge. Remuneration is one "readily modifiable factor" that could improve recruitment and retention in longitudinal observational AD research, and guidance suggests that all participants and their study partners receive remuneration for participating in AD longitudinal research. Methods: We surveyed study partners (N = 517) at one Alzheimer's Disease Research Center in the United States regarding their views on remuneration. Results: Study partners felt largely neutral to positive regarding remuneration. Self-identified Black study partners had more positive views on remuneration than White study partners. Study partners with the least favorable views on remuneration perceived a lower participation burden and were less motivated by the perceived personal benefits of participating. All study partners were motivated by altruism and committed to continued participation. Discussion: Most study partners perceive remuneration as acceptable. Remuneration may improve recruitment and retention of historically underrepresented groups.