Investor Presentaiton
STATE PLAN DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
Public input and stakeholder involvement are crucial to the development of a quality State Plan for Aging
Services. DARS engaged a variety of stakeholders over the last year in the development of this plan. In
the fall of 2018, DARS, with support from the CCOA and local AAAs, hosted five regional listening sessions
across Virginia (Henrico, Alexandria, Newport News, Roanoke and Big Stone Gap).
Major comment themes included:
Transportation
Frequently mentioned in the context of social
isolation and loneliness, access to transporta-
tion was the most cited concern. Commenters
noted the need for transportation services
beyond medical appointments to include com-
mon errands, such as grocery shopping, trips to
the mall, trips to community events, as well as
the need for accessible and available public
transportation.
Caregiving
Comments advocated for more assistance for
caregivers, including the need for easy-to-
access information on service options, self-care
information and supports, and respite care
options.
Nutrition Services
Often mentioned was the need for quality meals
and how funding for nutrition services helps
prevent malnutrition in older adults. Comment-
ers also touched on the intersection between
nutrition services and healthy aging program-
ming, such as Chronic Disease Self-
Management Education (CDSME) or Programs
(CDSMP) and how nutrition services support
social connectedness.
Housing
Housing, specifically affordable housing, was a
primary concern during the listening sessions.
Commenters spoke of the need for housing op-
tions for all older adults, but specifically those
with lower to middle incomes. Commenters
reported the need for more housing subsidies
and public housing supports, increased availa-
bility and access to the Auxiliary Grant Program,
home modifications and repairs to enhance
aging in place, and variety in housing options.
Alzheimer's Disease and Dementias
Comments expressed support for Alzheimer's
disease services, particularly those that help
individuals stay in their communities. Comment-
ers also noted Dementia Friendly programs, the
need for a dementia-capable workforce, and
commitment to the implementation of Virginia's
Dementia State Plan.
Health Promotion
Commenters encouraged access to CDSME/P,
exercise, nutrition counseling, and mental
health services. They also highlighted the role
of social determinants of health, health care,
and care transitions in overall health and well-
being.
The Word Cloud¹ (next page) highlights the themes, with the largest font text serving to represent those
that appear to be the most discussed.
1Note: The Word Cloud is not a scientifically validated thematic analysis.
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