State-of-the-Art Report on Needs Assessment and Information-Based Planning in the State Aging Network

摘要

Information-gathering strategies used by State Units on Aging (SUAs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and agency use of information are examined. Attention is directed to the kinds of information being collected regarding the needs of the elderly, the sources of information, how information about the needs of the elderly is used in planning and decisionmaking processes, the impact of collecting and utilizing needs assessment data, and the importance SUAs and AAAs place upon the collection and utilization of needs assessment data (i.e., whether the needs assessment is an integral part of the planning effort or a process to meet compliance with Administration on Aging regulations). Of 43 states chosen for interviews based on geographic locations and proportions of elderly or minority persons, 33 states were interviewed, and 3 states provided written materials. Information is provided on states' perspectives on needs assessment, including four issues related to states' activities: purpose, approach, frequency, and impact or value of needs assessment.