Qualitative Consultations and Mixed-Methods Research

Understanding Cannabis Use, Polysubstance Use, and Sexual Behaviors Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Challenge: Identify health disparities that exist among middle-aged and older adults.

We wanted to understand health attitudes among middle-aged and older adults across New York City and evaluate whether there are other contextual factors, such as stigma and medical mistrust, that may account for underreported rates of these behaviors. Our team collaborated with psychologists, epidemiologists, and local public health experts to develop qualitative interviews and an online survey to assess the relationship between behaviors like polysubstance use and sexual behavior among older adults.  

Additional skills: 

• Recruitment of hard to reach populations

• Qualitative interviews with community members 

• Survey development and implementation