Senior citizens who live in Jefferson and surrounding Kentucky counties are encouraged to take a brief survey online or over the phone to help analyze social service needs for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

For the second year, the University of Louisville Institute for Sustainable Health and Optimal Aging will conduct a community needs assessment on behalf of the Kentuckiana Regional Planning & Development Agency (KIPDA).

Led by the institute’s Executive Director, Anna Faul, Ph.D., and Director of Health Innovation and Sustainability, Joe D’Ambrosio, Ph.D., the 2018 KIPDA needs assessment surveys people across the seven KIPDA counties – Bullitt, Henry, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble and Jefferson. It looks at each county in regards to housing, outdoor spaces and buildings, transportation and streets, health and wellness, social participation, inclusion and education opportunities, volunteering and civic engagement and job opportunities.

The survey results, together with an analysis of current community services and gaps, will allow the institute to make specific and strategic recommendations to KIPDA. If adopted, these recommendations are designed to ensure that older adults and individuals with disabilities have their immediate social service needs met while more broadly enabling them to lead lives of dignity and independence.

Anyone living in the designated counties is invited to complete the Community Needs Assessment Survey. The more people that participate, the more likely service gaps can be addressed. Older adults, caregivers, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to participate in this research study. Survey participants do not have to be recipients of KIPDA services.

The assessment can be found online or by calling 502-852-8953. The institute can provide a paper copy upon request or at senior centers within the seven counties. The deadline to complete the assessment is Feb. 1, 2018.

For more information, visit www.optimalaginginstitute.org/kipda or contact Dr. D’Ambrosio at joe.dambrosio@louisville.edu or 502-852-7811.