The purpose of this report is to identify the process, method, and practice by which the AAAs may most effectively and accurately identify the needs of caregivers in their Planning and Service Area (PSA). For the purpose of this analysis, we have adapted and integrated three distinct models of need analysis (McKillip, 1987). In developing this model, consideration was given to both the minimum requirements put forth by California Code of Regulations §7300, and to the guidelines provided by the California Department of Aging Program Memo (PM) 01-10. Our intent is to incorporate these regulations and guidelines into a comprehensive and practical framework of caregiver needs assessment. Within this framework, we examine the following six general steps in the needs assessment process: 1) describe the current population of caregivers; 2) determine existing and unmet needs of caregivers; 3) inventory existing caregiver resources and services; 4) identify service gaps, including existing barriers to equitable access to caregiver resources and services; 5) prioritize the identified service needs of caregivers; and 6) design a plan for the delivery of caregiver services that reduces identified barriers to access, supplements existing services, and creates new services where none exist, in the most effective and efficient manner possible. We also provide a brief description and critique of some of the most commonly used methods to identifying needs, including surveys, secondary data analysis, focus groups, key informant interview and public meetings. // (2002)
