Programs for Senior Arkansans | UAMS Rural Health Hub

Caregiver Support Groups

Support groups offer regularly scheduled in-person and virtual support that provide a safe social space for those living with or caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other chronic conditions. These groups are essential for reducing isolation in rural Arkansas.

Support Groups

Family Caregiver Workshops (Dementia & Physical Skills)

These free, community-based workshops use the Schmieding home caregiving curriculum to teach family members dementia management skills as well as physical skills needed in caregiving. The in-person and virtual sessions help rural families safely care for older adults in the home, reducing caregiver burnout and the need for premature institutionalization.

Family Caregiver Workshops

Alzheimer’s Experience: A Walk in Their Shoes

This free in-person or virtual immersive simulation replicates the sensory and cognitive challenges faced by those living with dementia, end of life, social isolation, caregiver burnout, or unsupervised wandering. The 20-minute simulation fosters an empathetic and dementia-friendly environment in local communities.

A Walk in Their Shoes

FOUND© – Facilitating Our Understanding of Neighbors with Dementia

FOUND partners with local law enforcement and first responders to protect vulnerable adults who wander. The program is unique to Cross County and provides safety wandering kits with QR codes and training for officers, caregivers and all first responders to quickly respond and return those with dementia safely home.

CLARIS Companion Homebound Engagement or other telehealth capabilities

This initiative offers homebound seniors virtual education and social connection via tablets, bridging the gap for rural residents with limited mobility. The program ensures they stay in touch with their care teams and receive regular wellness monitoring as well as cognitive stimulation.

Regional Centers on Aging

The UAMS Centers on Aging is a network of seven regional centers which work to improve the quality of life for older adults and their families. The centers offer older Arkansans local access to specialized educational and clinical care, working with UAMS Regional Campuses, regional hospitals, Area Agencies in Aging, local colleges and universities. The program is a part of the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging.

Centers on Aging Community Programs

4010, Jefferson Avenue, Texarkana, Miller County, Arkansas, 71854

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2422, North Thompson Street, Springdale, Washington County, Arkansas, 72764

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Frankie Lane, White Hall, Jefferson County, Arkansas, 71602

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612, South 12th Street, Fort Smith, Sebastian County, Arkansas, 72901

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1119, North Madison Avenue, El Dorado, Union County, Arkansas, 71730

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4508 S. Stadium, Suite E-F,
Jonesboro, AR 72404

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