Prince George's County completes comprehensive needs assessment for older residents

Prince George's County is taking significant steps to enhance services for its older residents, following the completion of a comprehensive needs assessment in partnership with George Washington University. This assessment, which involved over 800 participants through interviews, focus groups, and surveys, identified 12 primary themes aimed at improving the quality of life for older Prince Georgians.

Key recommendations from the assessment include expanding housing and transportation services, supporting caregivers, addressing health gaps, and improving resource accessibility. The next phase involves developing a strategic plan that incorporates community input and the insights gained from the assessment, with a target completion date set for September 30, 2025.

In addition to the needs assessment, the county's Aging and Disability Resource Center has successfully transitioned to a call center model, significantly improving response times for residents seeking assistance. This change allows multiple counselors to handle calls simultaneously, enhancing service efficiency. In fiscal year 2024, the center received over 32,000 calls, highlighting the demand for support among older adults and caregivers.

Moreover, the Aging and Disability Division has secured a federal grant to provide workshops for caregivers, equipping them with essential skills and support. The local management board has also been awarded $476,000 to implement initiatives aimed at improving services for children and families.

Looking ahead, the county plans to address staffing vacancies, streamline procurement processes, and enhance succession planning to prepare for upcoming retirements within the agency. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to leverage funding and improve programming for the community's aging population.