Beyond Quantitative Research: How Qualitative Research Could Affect Our Understanding of Older People Needs

Qualitative research represents a humanistic imperative in professional practice. Qualitative evidence improves care processes and takes into account the complexity of human experience. In this chapter, we highlight the importance of conducting qualitative studies in primary and older people care, clarifying the theoretical underpinnings of qualitative methodologies. Phenomena qualitative research may deepen include personal experiences and perceptions, behaviours within a specific context, and psychosocial processes. We summarize the relevant qualitative research involving older assisted persons and family physicians: available qualitative evidence informs clinical practice by identifying needs older people are not aware of or repress, understanding the complex treatment paths from the patients and physicians’ perspectives and outlining decision-making processes dynamics. Finally, we stress listening and participation as pivotal features of conducting qualitative research. From the qualitative research lesson, family physicians may learn how to listen to the assisted persons and maximise patients and caregivers’ participation in treatments.