Work

Older research participants are motivated to receive genetic results for the benefit of younger relatives

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The benefit of returning medically actionable genetic research findings is widely recognised. However, there is uncertainty regarding the return of results to older people (>70 years), given the reduced actionability in this age group. The goal of this study was to assess whether older people were motivated to receive genetic results, primarily for the benefit of younger relatives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals aged ≥70 enrolled in the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) study. Participants received medically actionable genetic results in Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer, Lynch syndrome or Familial Hypercholesterolaemia genes. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Sixteen individuals were interviewed (mean age 82 years). While participants recognised the limited actionability of the genetic results for themselves, the perceived benefits for younger family members motivated them to receive genetic findings and share with relatives. Participants reported positive experiences of receiving genetic results, underpinned by their existing relationship with the ASPREE trial, and reported that their age promoted their adaptation to results. These findings illustrate positive impact from returning genetic research results to older research participants and suggest that older people desire genetic information to benefit their younger family members.

Source: European Journal of Human Genetics

DOI: 10.1038/s41431-025-01940-8