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Southwest Montana News

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Montana launches community assessment survey targeting needs of older adults

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Charlie Brereton Director at Montana Department of Public Health | LinkedIn

Charlie Brereton Director at Montana Department of Public Health | LinkedIn

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has announced a new initiative aimed at understanding the needs of older adults in Montana. Adam Meier, representing DPHHS, stated that the agency is conducting a Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults to identify the priorities related to services provided by the state.

In collaboration with 10 Area Agencies on Aging, DPHHS is reaching out to older adults through this survey. "I encourage all Montanans 55 and older to participate in the survey," Meier said. "We’d really like to hear from as many people as possible so that we can better serve all Montanans."

The purpose of this survey is to gather insights directly from Montana residents about how best to support older adults across the state. The findings will be compared with similar surveys conducted in other states.

According to Meier, this marks the first time DPHHS has undertaken such a survey. It will include questions regarding quality of life, community characteristics, services provided, and future priorities.

A random sample of participants was selected from each county throughout Montana for participation. Meier emphasized that those who received an invitation by mail should complete that version using the URL provided rather than responding via the Open Participation survey.

For individuals not initially selected, the survey is accessible online for all Montanans aged 55 and older at https://polco.us/2022montana [polco.us]. The deadline for completing the survey is June 8, 2022.

Meier highlighted that information gathered from this survey is crucial for understanding what resources are needed to help older adults live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

Adults aged 55 and above can participate either online or request a paper version of the survey. Completing it takes approximately 15-30 minutes. A paper copy can be requested through one of the Area Agencies on Aging or by emailing Kerrie Reidelbach at kreidelbach@mt.gov.

Results from this survey are expected to be available on the DPHHS website in August and will also be presented at the annual Governor’s Conference on Aging scheduled for early October.

Montanans aged 60 years or more are eligible for services funded by the Older Americans Act through DPHHS State Unit on Aging in partnership with Area Agencies on Aging. Those interested can contact their local Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-551-3191 or reach out to the Aging Services Office at (406) 444-4077.

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