Integrating Computational Methods and AI into Qualitative Studies of Aging and Later Life

TL;DR

This chapter explores how computational social science tools, including machine learning and NLP, are enhancing qualitative aging research by enabling larger-scale analysis, pattern detection, and integration with traditional methods.

Contribution

It demonstrates the integration of CSS tools with qualitative aging studies, highlighting new workflows, scaling capabilities, and multi-method approaches.

Findings

CSS tools extend qualitative analysis capabilities.

Case studies show effective integration with aging research.

Challenges include balancing computational and qualitative insights.

Abstract

This chapter demonstrates how computational social science (CSS) tools are extending and expanding research on aging. The depth and context from traditionally qualitative methods such as participant observation, in-depth interviews, and historical documents are increasingly employed alongside scalable data management, computational text analysis, and open-science practices. Machine learning (ML) and natural language processing (NLP), provide resources to aggregate and systematically index large volumes of qualitative data, identify patterns, and maintain clear links to in-depth accounts. Drawing on case studies of projects that examine later life--including examples with original data from the DISCERN study (a team-based ethnography of life with dementia) and secondary analyses of the American Voices Project (nationally representative interview)--the chapter highlights both uses and challenges of bringing CSS tools into more meaningful dialogue with qualitative aging research. The chapter argues such work has potential for (1) streamlining and augmenting existing workflows, (2) scaling up samples and projects, and (3) generating multi-method approaches to address important questions in new ways, before turning to practices useful for individuals and teams seeking to understand current possibilities or refine their workflow processes. The chapter concludes that current developments are not without peril, but offer potential for new insights into aging and the life course by broadening--rather than replacing--the methodological foundations of qualitative research.