Service directories: reinvigorating a community resource for self-care

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Community Health
• Information Dissemination

Background:

• Older adults often face challenges accessing community resources.
• Effective dissemination of service information is crucial for this demographic.
• Community service directories can bridge information gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development, distribution, and effectiveness of a mass-mailed community service directory for older adults.
• To assess the impact of the directory on service awareness and utilization.
• To explore alternative strategies for directory design and distribution.

Main Methods:

• Development and mass-mailing of a free community service directory.
• Pre- and post-distribution surveys to assess directory recall and impact.
• Qualitative analysis of recipient feedback on service awareness and use.

Main Results:

• Approximately 50% of the sample recalled receiving the directory.
• Recipients reported increased awareness of available community services.
• The directory prompted various forms of service utilization among recipients.

Conclusions:

• Mass-mailed community service directories can be effective tools for older adults.
• Improving directory recall through design and distribution strategies is important.
• Further research into optimal directory formats and delivery methods is warranted.