AR SR14

The 83rd General Assembly funded a statewide program of specialized health care services for seniors living in rural Arkansas using tobacco Master Settlement Agreement money.

The Arkansas Aging Initiative, a program of the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, established nine comprehensive regional centers on aging located in West Memphis, El Dorado, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, Springdale, Texarkana, Hot Springs, and Mountain Home.

The Arkansas Aging Initiative designed a model program delivering specialized interprofessional geriatric healthcare and education to senior citizens in rural Arkansas within 60 miles of every Arkansas senior.

The program has become a national model being replicated in Oklahoma with a grant from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, and continues to replicate the Schmieding Home Caregiver Program at regional centers for family members and caregivers.

The Senate recognizes and commends Dr. Claudia Beverly, the Arkansas Aging Initiative leadership team, and participating hospital administrators, geriatricians, nurses, and educators for their efforts improving quality of life for older Arkansans.