Area Plan on Aging
Planning Process
AgeSmart assesses service needs of older adults in the seven-county region every three years as a part of the planning process and establishes a priority service list annually. The service priorities reflect those services found to be the greatest need for those older adults in the planning and service area (PSA). A variety of methods are used to identify the needs of older adults, caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren in the PSA as outlined below.
- Studying national trends and reports on the needs of older adults, caregivers and grandparents raising grandchildren
- Analyzing U.S. and local census data and other relevant demographic statistics
- Analyzing service utilization using National Aging Program Information System and Enhanced Services Program
- Collecting community input through surveys
AgeSmart presents the findings from the assessments to AgeSmart’s Board of Directors and Advisory Council to establish service priorities and develop new programs. Through monitoring efforts, open dialogue with service providers, and contact with the public, AgeSmart gathers information to make nuanced or significant changes in programs within the planning cycle. The service priorities reflect those services found to be the greatest need for the older adults and their caregivers in the region.