The Polk County Board of Supervisors approved agreements on Apr. 22 aimed at increasing support for elderly residents and individuals with developmental disabilities.
The initiative is important because it seeks to enhance autonomy, legal rights, and access to services for some of the county’s most vulnerable populations.
One agreement, made in partnership with the Iowa Developmental Disability Council and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Division of Aging and Disability Services, will establish a Supported Decision-Making demonstration project funded by grants. Supported Decision-Making is intended to help people understand, consider, and communicate their decisions more effectively while maintaining independence.
A second agreement will see Aging Resources of Central Iowa provide $404,000 annually over two years. The funds are designated for nutrition programs, transportation assistance, outreach efforts, health promotion initiatives, and disease prevention activities targeting seniors in Polk County.
Polk County Board Chair Matt McCoy said, “This project is a crucial step in ensuring that our elderly and those with disabilities have the support they need to make informed choices about their health and wellbeing.”
Joel Olah, Executive Director of Aging Resources of Central Iowa said: “Through Supported Decision-Making, we are paving the way for a future where individuals feel empowered to make decisions that affect their lives, promoting both dignity and independence.”
For more information about these programs or services offered through Senior Services Administration in Polk County call 515-286-3679 or visit https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/community-family-youthservices/senior-services/about-us/.
