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Chapter 3 Research Framework
study approach was useful in understanding the context. It has already been
established that context is important for this research study (embeddedness of the
case). This affirms the rationale for choosing the case study approach to inform this
research. Similarly, McCormack et al. (2008) aimed to explore older persons’
experiences of “whole systems” and the impact of health and social care
organisational structures on these experiences. Phase one of this study involved
conducting a detailed literature review of the evidence pertaining to “whole systems”
working with older people. Phase two compared and contrasted the data arising from
the literature review with those collected in one “whole system” descriptive case
study. It was explained that case study methodology is concerned with gaining an in-
depth understanding of a phenomenon in a particular setting and contributes to the
understanding of individuals, organisations, and social and political phenomena.
McCormack et al. (2008) stated that case studies focus on specific contexts and try
to understand how a particular issue translates into real situations. It was argued that
a descriptive case study allows for the “slicing” of a context into parts, and for the
selection of particular parts of that system for in-depth study. Documentation,
interviews, focus groups and a service user conference were employed as the data
collection methods.
Goodman et al. (2007) adopted a multiple embedded case study design in order to
understand how physical activity for older people was promoted (the case) in one
geographical area. A documentary review was conducted and in-depth interviews
were held with individuals who either had designated responsibility for health
promotion with older people and/or were leading on activity-based services. Again,
the appropriateness of using a case study approach for research with older people
was revealed.
These studies support the use of case study research in nursing. It is evident that
many other researchers have chosen to adopt case study research as an appropriate
method of inquiry for older person research.