HJAR Mar/Apr 2026

26 MAR / APR 2026 I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF ARKANSAS MS. JOHNSON’S STORY At age 79, she wanted to stay in her house but struggled with outdoor steps. CAPABLE provided a nurse, occupational therapist, and handyman to install safety features. Six months later she was still independent. “The team didn’t just fix my house — they gave me back my life.” Evidence-Based Models: CAPABLE One of the most promising models of a resilient system is CAPABLE (Community Aging in Place — Advancing Better Living for Elders), developed by Johns Hopkins. 11 It combines nursing, occupational therapy, and home modification to reduce disability, improve mood, and cut healthcare costs. Neighborhoods as Part of the Workforce Beyond healthcare resources, neighborhoods are increasingly recognized as vital partners in supporting older adults and strengthening the broader workforce of care. Research on villages and age-friendly communities shows fewer ER visits, fewer falls, stronger social ties, and greater confidence in aging at home. 12 C o m m u n i t y & V o l u n t e e r N e t w o r k s Family Caregivers unpaid support, respite needs Neighbors & Friends transportation, check-ins, companionship Faith Communities spiritual support, volunteers, intergenerational programs Nurses (RNs, LPNs) clinical oversight, medication, wound care Therapists (OT, PT, Speech) mobility, rehabilitation, function Social Workers & Care Navigators coordination, family liaison, emotional support Restorative Aides independence, recovery CNAs / Direct Care Workers (DCWs) T e c h n o l o g y & I n n o v a t i o n ( E n a b l i n g S u p p o r t s ) A r e a A g e n c i e s o n A g i n g & C o u n c i l s o n A g i n g , V i l l a g e s / N O R C s ( N a t u r a l l y O c c u r r i n g R e t i r e m e n t C o m m u n i t i e s ) , V o l u n t e e r O r g a n i z a t i o n s T e l e h e a l t h , F a l l D e t e c t i o n & S a f e t y S e n s o r s , M e d i c a t i o n M a n a g e m e n t T o o l s , R o b o t i c s & S m a r t A s s i s t a n t s CIRCLE OF CARE MR. LEE’S STORY At age 85 with early dementia, Mr. Lee remains at home. His daughter prepares meals, a neighbor drives him to the barber, friends play Monday night poker at his house, a CNA visits three times a week, and telehealth monitors his blood pressure. This circle of care keeps him safe, connected, and dignified — without nursing home placement.