Hello, my name is Elsa Tamayo, current intern for Nonprofit Connection Santa Cruz County and student at California State University, Monterey Bay. In October 2024, I attended the Master Plan of Aging Solutions Summit, an event focused on addressing challenges and solutions for the aging population. As part of my engagement with aging-related issues, I created a pamphlet highlighting the key concerns of older adults in Santa Cruz County, including affordability, healthcare access, housing, caregiving, and inclusion. This report reflects insights gained from the summit and how they align with the findings presented in my pamphlet. It also expands on the policy recommendations and community-based solutions discussed during the summit.
All data and information referenced in this report were retrieved from the Santa Cruz County Health Department, ensuring that the findings and recommendations presented are backed by local research and statistics.
Key Issues Addressed
Affording Aging
The summit emphasized the financial struggles older adults face, particularly those with low income. It is highlighted that 15.6% of Santa Cruz County residents aged 60+ earn less than 150% of the federal poverty level and that financial strain often exacerbates mental health challenges such as anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Discussions at the summit reinforced the importance of economic security programs and local resources to support financial stability for seniors.
Work groups at the summit proposed several financial solutions:
- Universal Basic Income (UBI) – Exploring guaranteed income programs to provide financial stability for seniors.
- Creation of a Senior Tax Credit – Developing tax incentives to alleviate financial burdens on older adults.
- CalSavers – Promoting awareness and access to California’s retirement savings program to encourage long-term financial security.
- Equity in financial planning – Addressing disparities in financial literacy and wealth accumulation among seniors.
- Senior Housing Trust Funds – Establish dedicated funds to support affordable housing options for older adults.
- Education Initiatives – Increasing voter education, changing cultural norms around aging, and encouraging proactive financial planning.
- Possible creation of Next 5 – Developing an initiative focused on supporting older adults in a way similar to how First 5 programs assist early childhood development.
One of the primary takeaways from the summit was the need for increased financial literacy programs tailored for older adults. Experts highlighted the benefits of workshops that educate seniors on budgeting, retirement planning, and fraud prevention. Additionally, speakers emphasized the necessity of advocating for expanded access to financial assistance programs, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and property tax relief for low-income seniors.
Caregiving That Works
Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting older adults, yet they often face stress and lack adequate resources. It is highlighted that caregivers struggle with changing roles, financial strain, and finding reliable help. The summit addressed these concerns by advocating for caregiver support programs, respite care services, and increased funding for caregiver training initiatives.
Work groups at the summit proposed several key caregiving solutions:
- Social media (Nextdoor, Facebook groups) – Utilizing community-based social media platforms to connect caregivers and provide peer support.
- Virtual caregiver training – Developing online training modules for caregivers to improve skills and knowledge.
- Tracking equity measures (caregiving assessments) – Implementing data collection methods to assess and address disparities in caregiving support.
- Telehealth (distribution of tools) – Expanding access to remote healthcare options by providing caregivers with telehealth tools.
- All modalities (Zoom, webinars, libraries, etc.) – Offering diverse training and support options, including in-person workshops, virtual webinars, and educational programs at public libraries.
- Training on technology – Providing caregivers with the necessary training to utilize digital tools for communication, scheduling, and healthcare management.
Health Reimagined
Healthcare accessibility and navigation remain significant challenges for older adults. It is indicated that 28% of respondents aged 60+ report difficulty navigating the healthcare system, especially those with lower incomes, disabilities, or unstable housing. The summit explored potential solutions, such as expanded telehealth services, increased healthcare advocacy, and community outreach initiatives to ensure that older adults receive the care they need.
Work groups at the summit proposed several key healthcare solutions:
- Expanding eligibility for healthcare and provider services – Advocating for policy changes that allow more seniors to qualify for healthcare programs.
- Expanding beds in Santa Cruz County – Many older adults are forced to leave the county for essential care due to a shortage of available beds.
- Long-term care resources – Increasing support and accessibility for long-term care options, including in-home care and assisted living facilities.
- Possible incentives for providers – Encouraging more healthcare professionals to serve the senior community through financial incentives and support programs.
- Need for Community Health Workers (CHWs) in gerontology – Training and integrating CHWs to provide specialized assistance for aging populations.
- Integrated system of information and services – Creating a streamlined, easily accessible database of senior services, ensuring that older adults and caregivers can find necessary resources efficiently.
- Increased knowledge on how to serve the senior community – Providing education and training for healthcare providers to better understand and address the unique needs of older adults.
Panelists discussed the critical role of care coordinators and patient navigators in helping seniors access healthcare services efficiently. Telehealth was also a major topic, with an emphasis on how digital literacy programs can empower older adults to utilize virtual healthcare options effectively. Additionally, the summit shed light on disparities in healthcare access among marginalized groups, stressing the need for culturally competent care providers and language-accessible services.
Housing for All Ages and Stages
Stable and affordable housing is a pressing concern for aging populations. 38% of respondents aged 60+ are unsure of their ability to age in place due to challenges related to household maintenance and repairs. The summit featured discussions on innovative housing models, including home-sharing programs and policies that promote affordable housing options for seniors.
Work groups at the summit generated several housing solutions to address the needs of older adults:
- Modular housing – Prefabricated, cost-effective housing options to increase affordable living spaces.
- Multigenerational housing – Designing housing that accommodates multiple generations to foster familial support and reduce isolation.
- Income support for individuals – Expanding financial assistance programs to help seniors afford stable housing.
- Shared housing – Encouraging safe home-sharing initiatives where seniors can live with vetted housemates.
- Good quality transit – Enhancing public transportation options to make it easier for older adults to access healthcare, groceries, and community activities.
- Concentrated population density – Develop housing solutions that cluster seniors in well-served areas with access to necessary services.
- Housing program supports (ADUs) – Expanding funding and policies that encourage the development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to increase available housing options for older adults.
Inclusion and Equity
Ensuring that older adults feel included and supported in their communities is vital for overall well-being. My pamphlet highlights that social isolation is a growing concern among seniors in Santa Cruz County, particularly in rural areas where access to resources is limited. The summit focused on bridging generational gaps, increasing access to technology, and fostering inclusive spaces for aging populations.
Work groups at the summit proposed several key solutions to promote inclusion:
- Connecting age groups (youth + seniors) – Developing intergenerational programs that foster relationships and mentorship opportunities between younger and older generations.
- Establishing relationships – Creating community-based initiatives that encourage regular engagement and meaningful connections for seniors.
- One-stop call center for senior resources – Implement a centralized service where seniors can easily access information about healthcare, housing, transportation, and social programs.
- Addressing the rural nature of Santa Cruz County – Expanding outreach programs to ensure seniors in remote areas have access to necessary resources and support.
- Transportation for seniors – Improving and expanding transportation services tailored for older adults, ensuring they can remain mobile and independent.
- Technology for seniors (access and training) – Providing digital literacy programs and technology access to help seniors navigate online resources, telehealth, and virtual connections.
- Preparation for life stages – Offering educational workshops and tools to help seniors plan for different stages of aging, including financial planning and healthcare decision-making.
- Building community – Creating safe and welcoming spaces where seniors can engage in social, educational, and recreational activities.
- Integrating culture and creating safe spaces – Ensuring that diverse cultural backgrounds and identities are recognized and supported in senior programs and services.
Summit speakers emphasized that social inclusion plays a critical role in mental and emotional well-being, particularly for seniors who may experience isolation or limited mobility. Expanding community engagement initiatives, enhancing accessibility, and fostering intergenerational connections were identified as key strategies to help seniors lead fulfilling and connected lives.
Conclusion
Attending the Age Well Master Plan of Aging Solutions Summit provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for improving the lives of older adults. The discussions and proposed solutions closely align with the issues outlined in my pamphlet, reinforcing the need for collaborative efforts between policymakers, nonprofits, and community members. By continuing to advocate for age-friendly policies and support services, we can help ensure that all older adults can age with dignity and security.
Additional Resources
For more information on aging-related resources, programs, and services in Santa Cruz County, visit the Santa Cruz Senior Resources on Nonprofit Connection Santa Cruz’ County Resources Page. For a full, comprehensive list of services and resources,please visit Senior Network Services.
For more information, please refer to the Digital Pamphlet.