The Polk County Board of Supervisors approved agreements on Apr. 22 to enhance support for seniors and individuals with developmental disabilities. The measures include a partnership with the Iowa Developmental Disability Council and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Division of Aging and Disability Services to launch a Supported Decision-Making demonstration project, funded by grants.
Supported Decision-Making is an approach that helps people receive assistance in understanding, considering, and communicating their decisions. This practice aims to promote autonomy, preserve legal rights, and improve informed decision-making among participants.
A second agreement involves Aging Resources of Central Iowa providing $404,000 annually over the next two years to help address nutrition needs, transportation services, outreach programs, health promotion efforts, and disease prevention.
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 Polk County Senior Centers or Senior Services Administration office can be found at https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/community-family-youthservices/senior-services/about-us/.
