Clinical research for older adults in rural areas: the MINDED study experience

Due to the growing need to make clinical decisions based on valid and objective scientific evidence, the number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has increased over the last three decades. Nevertheless, evidence-based medicine has still limited applicability in older adults, because they are often excluded from clinical trials. Evidence-based medicine is even more challenging in rural areas, as its remote environment provides additional barriers. Nevertheless, given the high prevalence of older adults living in rural settings, research in this type of environment has become crucial. This can only be accomplished by considering the multiple additional challenges of these regions. In this paper, we examine potential environmental, procedural, and participants’ barriers to the management of a RCT in a rural area. Possible solutions and suggestions are provided based on our experience—from the Multidomain Intervention to preveNt Disability in ElDers (MINDED) project.