Addressing Answer Consistency of Residents in Residential Homes: Experiences From a Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

This paper addresses two methodological debates: first, it examines the consistency of responses in mixed-method designs; second, it does so with a particular focus on older people, both with and without cognitive impairments, living in care institutions. The empirical basis consists of 135 semi-structured interviews with individuals aged 50 to 92, conducted in residential homes for the elderly. We compare responses to open, narrative questions with those to closed questions on three topics: quality of life, decision to move, and cognitive decline. We conclude that responses on the same topic are generally consistent, although declining cognitive ability reduces this consistency. With this article we contribute to the discussion on the feasibility of surveying older (institutionalised) people with and without cognitive impairment, as well as the potential and benefits of combining qualitative and quantitative data.