AARP presents caregiving survey to Senate committee, urges tax credits and supports

Ness Nahus, associate state director for advocacy at AARP Arkansas, presented survey findings and policy options to the Children and Youth Committee.

"There are over 460,000 caregivers in Arkansas," Nahus said, summarizing statewide survey results that show many family caregivers shoulder financial burdens and job impacts while providing care. She told members that 64% of caregivers spend their own money on care and 44% said they have been able to save less for retirement because of caregiving responsibilities.

The AARP survey of registered voters age 40+ found high support for policy measures that would help family caregivers: 90% endorsed a state income tax credit to offset caregiving expenses, 88% favored short‑term respite supports, and strong majorities supported workplace flexibility and protections for employees providing care. Nahus also described strong interest in telehealth and self‑managed Medicaid options, noting 75% of respondents preferred self‑managed care when eligible.

Committee members asked implementation questions, including verification of tax credit claims and examples from other states. Nahus said credits are typically documented with receipts and tax filings and that models vary by state.

The committee thanked AARP for its presentation and offered to follow up with staff for more information on policy design.