Recruiting elderly with a migration and/or low socioeconomic status in the prevention study OptimaHl 60plus.

OptimaHl 60plus was a prevention study that included the participatory development and evaluation of an interdisciplinary counseling aid and aimed to improve the nutrition and physical activity behavior of people 60 years and older. The direct involvement of this vulnerable group in prevention programs might contribute to a reduction of inequities in health. This article describes the recruitment of the elderly, especially those with low socioeconomic or migration status, to the OptimaH1 60plus study. It presents successful strategies to reach and recruit the elderly. Community partner involvement, focus groups, translated intervention material, and involving the media all facilitated recruitment. The article gives recommendations for research, practice, and policy implications.