RESUMO
This article describes methodological best practices for a comprehensive, multitiered, targeted community needs assessment and strategies used to disseminate and implement findings. Although the methods could be applied to different populations, this article illustrates a community needs assessment targeting older adults. The assessment methodology included public data; local healthcare facility data; telephone survey of older adults; targeted focus groups of older adults; and surveys of caregivers, service and healthcare providers, religious organizations, and key informants. Dissemination strategies included community forums and conferences, a Web site, and publications. Collaborative projects implemented to address areas identified for improvement are also described.
