Learning from paid caregivers about caring for people with obesity

STUDY BASICS

Have you provided paid help at home to someone with obesity? You may be able to participate in a research study to learn more about how obesity affects the provision of home- and community-based services. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

Older people often need help at home to live healthy and happy lives. However, body weight or body size may make receiving help at home more difficult and challenging in unique ways. The University of Pittsburgh and Magee-Womens Research Institute researchers would like to learn more about how obesity affects the provision of home- and community-based services. Client or patient obesity may affect these services (home health, personal care, transportation vans, meal services, adult day care, senior centers, and hospice).

We are looking to interview paid home caregivers and home- and community-based service providers, listening to what they have experienced. Your stories and experiences will be kept confidential but used in the future to improve the lives of people with disabilities and obesity. 

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Eligible participants should:

• Be employed or have been employed as a home- and community-based caregiver or administrator in the last six months, working more than 15 hours a week. 
• Have provided care for home- and community-based patients with a body mass index (BMI)* greater than 35. 
• Are able to discuss your experiences in English. 

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

The research study involves a single, audio-recorded interview lasting 30-45 minutes. The interview can be done over the phone or by video conference. It will be conducted by Dr. John Harris, an obesity researcher and physician, from the University of Pittsburgh or his research staff. Participants will be paid $80 for their time.