| This needs assessment attempted to find out: (1) what kinds of services are most demanded by the seniors involved in the Friendly Visiting Services at Age and Opportunity, (2) whether the current programs and services meet the seniors' needs, and (3) how the agency and professionals could best support the seniors. The study was designed with a mixed methodology that combined both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The program population's profile, the seniors' perceptions of their current lives, and their experiences with the Friendly Visiting program and other social services were examined and presented. A variety of factors, such as the seniors' limited mobility and their relationships with children, had a tremendous impact on the seniors in terms of insufficient social contact. Although some seniors reported that their lives had been negatively affected by inadequate social connections, many of them had an optimistic attitude towards their current lives. The seniors indicated their interests in a wide range of activities and expressed their concerns and expectations regarding the Friendly Visiting program and other services. The implications of the study are discussed and recommendations are offered to practitioners working with and for seniors. |
