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Despite the multitude of adverse health consequences that result from caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease, family caregivers frequently underutilize available support services. This phenomenon has been examined from different perspectives but few have observed the specific role of a needs assessment. The objective of this study is to explore the role of needs assessment in determining the needs of family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease. Specifically, this project seeks to: 1. Review the literature to understand common reasons for underutilization of support services by family caregivers. 2. Discuss the role of needs assessment in addressing the reasons for underutilization. 3. Determine how support services organizations can use a needs assessment to increase support service utilization by caregivers., INTRODUCTION Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia, greatly impairs a person's ability to live independently. Approximately 70% of people with AD are living at home where they [...]