Engaging diverse older adults to improve clinical trial recruitment

Workforce Development Engages Diverse Older Adults to Catalyze Innovative Approaches for Enhanced Recruitment and Retention

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10662532

This study is working to include more older adults, especially those over 75 and from Hispanic backgrounds, in clinical trials by training them to help others understand the research process and give informed consent, making it easier for everyone to participate.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10662532 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the recruitment and retention of diverse older adults in clinical trials by training them as Engagement Specialists and Informed Consent Specialists. The project addresses the significant underrepresentation of older adults, particularly those over 75 and from Hispanic backgrounds, in clinical research. By employing older adults in these roles, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between the demographics of trial participants and the broader population. The training will utilize existing curricula and focus on preparing 45 diverse older adults over three years.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are diverse older adults, particularly those aged 60 and above, who are interested in participating in clinical trials or working in research support roles.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 60 or those who do not identify as part of the diverse older adult population may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more inclusive clinical trials that better reflect the diverse older adult population, ultimately improving health outcomes for this group.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in employing community members to enhance recruitment efforts in clinical trials, indicating that this approach has potential.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.