Friday, April 24, 2026

Polk County Approves Funding to Support Health & Wellness for Seniors & Disabled


Des Moines, IA- The Polk County Board of Supervisors, on Tuesday, approved agreements aimed at enhancing assistance for elderly and those individuals with developmental  disabilities. The first agreement, in collaboration with the Iowa Developmental Disability Council and 
the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Division of Aging and Disability Services, is designed to launch a Supported Decision-Making demonstration project, made possible through grant 
funding.

Supported Decision-Making is an innovative approach that seeks to empower individuals by providing them with the necessary support to understand, consider, and communicate their decisions effectively. 
This practice not only promotes autonomy and preserves legal rights but also contributes significantly to informed decision-making.

With the second agreement, Aging Resources of Central Iowa will contribute $404,000 each year for the next two years to assist with nutrition, transportation needs, program outreach, health promotion 
and disease prevention.

Polk County Board Chair Matt McCoy states, “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.”

“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.” Said, 
Joel Olah, Executive Director, Aging Resources of Central Iowa.

Please call your closest Polk County Senior Center for more information or call the Senior Services Administration office at 515-286-3679.
 
Information also available at https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/community-family-youthservices/senior-services/about-us/

Source:
Polk County Approves Funding to Support Health & Wellness for Seniors & Disabled  

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