The quality of qualitative data: Issues to consider when interviewing participants who have difficulties providing detailed accounts of their experiences

Abstract

This article discusses threats and challenges that may arise when conducting qualitative interviews with persons with language handicap or frail elderly who have difficulties providing detailed accounts of their experiences. The literature on qualitative research seems to assume that qualitative interviews of good quality consist of long, uninterrupted narratives. This ideal encompasses particular requirements to study participants. Qualitative studies including frail elderly or people with communicative handicaps may be harmed by biased samples or thin descriptions. Strategies to maximize the quality of interview data, such as larger and more varied samples, investing sufficient time to establish rapport in the interview situation, repeated interviews, specific interview techniques, and combining interviewing and participant observations are suggested. Key words: Qualitative methods, qualitative interview, interviewing, stroke survivors, frail elderly