Hancock County Community and Caregiver Needs Assessment Summary of Findings

The Hancock County Needs Assessment Survey was conducted to evaluate the Hancock County region in regard to resources, or lack thereof. The goal was to uncover the knowledge of resources as well as the perceptions of the strength and deficiencies of them. The assessment was executed through surveys and focus groups, and involved a variety of participants throughout 25 communities in Hancock County. Just over three quarters of respondents were, or currently are, caregivers. Challenges that were noted by respondents involve transportation, lack of formal resources/money for expanding services, respite, and the fact that caregiving is complex and demanding. Strengths stated include resiliency and strength of caregivers, a strong sense of community, and local resources. Crucial needs that were discovered include case management and support services and training, which allowed for recommendations to be made in regard to improvements that can be made in the future