(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) — The Arkansas Department of Human Services has partnered with The Arkansas Lifespan Respite Coalition (ALRC) to host the annual Arkansas Respite and Caregiver Conference for 2022. This year’s event will be held in person at the University of Central Arkansas’s Brewer-Hegeman Conference Center on November 14 and 15. There will also be a virtual option for those who are unable to travel to the Central Arkansas area.

There is no cost to attend the conference this year. Family caregivers, advocates, respite providers, and caregiver support organizations are encouraged to attend.

“Our caregivers are so resilient, patient, and loving,” said DHS Division of Provider Services and Quality Assurance (DPSQA) Deputy Director Sarah Schmidt. “They work so hard to care for their loved ones, and that responsibility is physically, emotionally, and even financially draining. Respite allows them to take a break and recharge so they can better care for their loved ones. This conference is all about recognizing their hard work, learning new and better ways to care for their loved ones and themselves, and raising awareness of the importance of and need for quality respite care in Arkansas.” 

Topics for this year’s event will include information on DHS programs and services, Medicaid and Medicare eligibility and assistance, caregiver self-care, as well as respite and caregiver support activities happening around the state.
ALRC is also pleased to open nominations for the 2022 Arkansas Respite and Caregiver Recognition Awards. These awards look to recognize the selfless work done by caregivers, service providers, advocates, and respite workers across the state.

All award recipients will be featured on the Arkansas Lifespan Respite website as well as be offered the opportunity to contribute to the quarterly newsletter and participate in media opportunities involving Arkansas Lifespan Respite activities. To nominate an individual or organization you know, or to nominate yourself, complete the nomination form here.

Nominations will close on October 28, 2022. Winners will be revealed during the 2022 Arkansas Respite and Caregiver Conference.

For more information about the Annual Respite and Caregiver Conference, visit the Arkansas Respite and Caregiver Conference web page or contact DPSQA Deputy Director Sarah Schmidt at sarah.schmidt@dhs.arkansas.gov.