How should the information needs of seniors be met? A study of seniors and information providers.

This study examines information channels used by seniors and measures their perceived effectiveness. A parallel study of information providers\u27 use of channels is included so that we may see which information channels are over utilized or under utilized according to effectiveness. Information about seniors\u27 perception of which channels are most effective for getting information may lead to the development of procedures or provisions likely to lead to more effective use of such channels. The study revealed major differences in the use of information channels by the seniors compared to the use by the information providers. Mass media were particularly under-utilized by information providers, while workshops and seminars were perceived to be much more important to information providers than they were to seniors. Seniors named a much wider range of channels than information providers. Shut-ins reported greater use of television, interpersonal channels, and medical channels than other seniors. Other findings suggest that use of all types of channels declines with age and that some groups may not be reached at all by conventional channels of information. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)Dept. of Communication Studies. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis1991 .B455. Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 30-04, page: 0940. Chairperson: Thomas C. Carney. Thesis (M.A.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 1990