Benefits and challenges of research with the oldest old for participants and nurses

The Klamath Exceptional Aging Project is a longitudinal aging study of people 85 and over, the “oldest old,” in rural Oregon. Although conducting research with those 85 and over can be challenging, it is increasingly more important that this group be included in research studies given their importance in society. Benefits for the oldest old participating in research include an opportunity for altruism, productivity, and generativity and the expression of power and control. Benefits for nurses conducting research with this group include gaining a unique understanding of the world of the elderly, the honor of being a confidante for them, and the opportunity to provide truly caring nursing to a vulnerable age group. There is also a great sense of satisfaction in adding to the knowledge base needed to attain successful aging.