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Question: Hello I need to conduct a survey of the needs of older people in a county. I have census statists, but need to survey about needs. I am concerned to ensure that a broad cross section of older people are included and don't have a database of addresses where older people live. Since some people will be homebound, some will be at work, and some will be out and about, can you help me by suggesting how I should conduct the survey to ensure that I get the full range of older people. Also I know that if it is not a random sample I can't say that the results apply to the wider popultion, but how do I overcome this so that organsation has enough information on which to base strategic decisions in the best interests of those in need within the community Whew! all this has been causing sleepless nights. Can you help
Answer: Hi Anne, I am sorry that we can't offer specific help with your challenge. Take a look at our Table of Contents and Workstation, but we don't think you will find a solution there. All we can think of is to ask your county Assessor if county property tax records can generate such a list, and whether the identities of taxpayers can be released for research purposes. Best wishes for finding a practical solution. If the above isn't possible or legal, we suggest you discuss the sample difficulties with the organization that needs the survey information and determine whether it is feasible/useful to proceed.
Question Date: Fri, 09/26/2008