Qualitative Research: Key Concepts and a Brief Overview of Its Application in Geriatrics/Gerontology

INTRODUCTION: This paper is part of a special series designed to help health professionals to develop a research project. It reviews the importance, methodology, and applicability of qualitative research. OBJECTIVE: To discuss the methodology of qualitative research presenting validity criteria and emphasizing the scientifi c rigor, with focus in healthcare area, especially in geriatrics/gerontology. METHODS: The authors performed a non-systematic literature review (PubMed.gov – U.S. National Library of Medicine/National Institute of Health) and included articles that clarifi ed the main themes. RESULTS: Qualitative research has grown considerably in the area of healthcare due to its ability to broaden the knowledge and interpretation of phenomena, experiences, behaviors, and their meaning in the lives of the people studied – elements not explored in quantitative methods. CONCLUSION: Qualitative approach has scientifi c rigor similar to quantitative research and manages to broaden understanding of participant behavior in a more holistic approach – which is extremely relevant in the area of geriatrics/gerontology.