A discrete choice experiment to explore carer preferences
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe a case study to test the applicability of the discrete choice experiment (DCE) method to assess the preferences of carers of people with dementia. The focus of enquiry was home care provision.
Design/methodology/approach
A multi-method approach was adopted for this pilot study. A literature review identified key characteristics of home care for dementia. This informed consultations with lay representatives. Key attributes of home care for the DCE were identified and formed the basis for the schedule. In all, 28 carers were recruited by two voluntary organisations to complete the DCE. A multinomial logistic regression model was used to analyse the data.
Findings
Seven attributes of home care for people with dementia were identified from the consultation. The use of the DCE approach permitted the identification of those most important to carers. Despite the modest sample, statistically significant findings were reported in relation to five of the attributes indicating their relevance. A lay involvement in the identification of attributes contributed to the ease of administration of the schedule and relevance of the findings.
Originality/value
This study demonstrated the utility of a DCE to capture the preferences of carers of people with dementia and thereby gather information from carers to inform policy, practice and service development. Their involvement in the design of the schedule was critical to this process.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This work was commissioned and funded by the Department of Health to inform the implementation of the National Dementia Strategy and supported by the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services. The authors are most grateful to the carers who participated in the study and the voluntary organisations who facilitated this. Responsibility for the paper is of the authors’ alone. The views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NHS, local authorities, the NIHR or the Department of Health.
Citation
Chester, H., Clarkson, P., Davies, L., Sutcliffe, C., Roe, B., Hughes, J. and Challis, D. (2017), "A discrete choice experiment to explore carer preferences", Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, Vol. 18 No. 1, pp. 33-43. https://doi.org/10.1108/QAOA-10-2015-0047
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2017, Emerald Publishing Limited