Research Design in Aging and Social Gerontology Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods

About the Author

Foreword

Preface

PART I: GETTING STARTED: AN OVERVIEW OF THE AGING

RESEARCH PROCESS

1. Introduction

2. Designing Research about Older People and Aging

3. Gerontological Theoretical Approaches

PART II: CHOOSING A RESEARCH METHOD AND SELECTING A DESIGN

4. Qualitative Methods

5. Quantitative Methods

6. Quantitative Data Analysis and Evaluation

7. Mixed Methods

8. Emerging and Future Methods

PART III: ANALYZING RESULTS AND REPORTING FINDINGS

9. Quantitative, Qualitative Software and Computer-Assisted Research

10. Ethical Issues and Concerns in Aging Research

11. Reporting Aging Research

Appendices

Glossary

Author Index

Subject Index

Biography

Joyce Weil, PhD, MPH, FGSA, is a social gerontologist and associate professor in the Gerontology Program of the Department of Health Sciences at Towson University. Her work centres around the meaning of place and place attachment for older adults and applying social research methodologies to the study of aging and older adults.

"Research Design in Aging and Social Gerontology (2nd Edition) is an invaluable and timely resource for Gerontology and social science students, as well as anyone interested in research with older adults. Joyce Weil skillfully navigates the complexities of methodological approaches, providing clear guidance on designing and conducting research in this field. She incorporates well-chosen research examples and draws on important authors from the field of gerontology. This book equips readers with the essential tools to approach gerontological research—an essential read for those seeking a comprehensive yet accessible guide to studying aging in a rapidly evolving social landscape."

Christoph Heuser, University of Southampton

"This comprehensive and insightful text is an essential resource for students, researchers, and professionals in the field of ageing. Joyce Weil provides a clear and balanced exploration of research methodologies, equipping readers with the knowledge and skills needed to design and conduct rigorous studies. The book’s inclusion of contemporary issues—such as virtual research methods, equity and inclusion, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—makes it especially relevant to today’s research landscape. With its practical guidance, real-world examples, and interdisciplinary approach, this text is an invaluable asset for both emerging and experienced scholars seeking to advance research in ageing and social gerontology."

Dr Dalia Tsimpida PhD, CPsychol, AFBPsS, SFHEA, University of Southampton

Reviews from the First Edition

"Joyce Weil has accomplished a remarkable feat; producing a volume that does justice to the wide range of research tasks that confront the gerontological imagination. She provides the important context to studying ageing as well as giving the researcher a clear account of how research works. This will be an invaluable text for all of those engaged in the field of ageing studies."

Paul Higgs, University College London, UK

"Research Design in Aging and Social Gerontology is a refreshing and timely addition to the interdisciplinary field of social gerontology, providing an informative, comprehensive textbook that explicates the process of discovery and a full range of research methods. Joyce Weil brings to life the intricacies of advanced methods training by integrating methods, cutting-edge applications, and instructive resources."

Andrew V. Wister, Simon Fraser University, Canada

"This is a truly unique book that brings together key perspectives—past and present—in gerontology with a wide variety of research designs and analytical approaches. It is a valuable tool for anyone who studies aging."

Kate de Medeiros, Miami University, USA