A systems method for the identification of variable service needs of the elderly

Current trends in the aging sector make critical the development of more precision in the policy and decision-making processes. This study explores a strategy for improving service allocation decisions in the aging services area. Two research tools were combined—Delphi and magnitude estimation—to identify the perceptions of key decision makers about the variable service needs of different aging risk groups. The results indicate that such distinctions can be made and can provide the basis of improving several aspects of the allocation process.