An estimated 1.2 million older adults nationwide currently reside in assisted/supportive living facilities, and research is required to continue to identify best outcomes in for their care. However, challenges exist. The aim of this paper is to address barriers and provide insights related to participant recruitment in assisted and supportive living facilities. Identified barriers included unproductive communication with reception area staff, a perceived lack of interest in research activity, and the inability of Director of Nursing (DON) to provide authorization for research activities. Recruitment insights included productive encounters with gatekeepers, establishing trust with executive administration and healthcare personnel, and research team persistence.
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