DATE:
May 24, 2022
05
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT
Title
A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO BETTER SERVE OLDER ADULTS BY INTEGRATING COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO SERVICES INTO SENIOR CENTERS (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
Senior centers have traditionally served as access points for socialization, recreational activities, lifelong learning opportunities, nutritious meals, and basic resource assistance for a growing population of older adults. These services provide fundamental support to older adults that support long, healthy, and independent lives. There are currently 30 senior centers in San Diego County, operated primarily by local governments and non-profit organizations. In addition to the traditional services provided at senior centers, older adults have a need to be connected to other social services and vital resources. Although many of the needed resources exist throughout the community, the ability to manage and schedule multiple appointments and physically transport themselves to numerous facilities remain barriers to access for many older adults. Senior centers are uniquely positioned to integrate County of San Diego (County) services with their existing operations, creating a one-stop shop for older adults.
In a comprehensive study of San Diego County senior centers completed in 2019, San Diego Seniors Community Foundation (SDSCF) identified challenges and opportunities for improvement within existing senior centers. Among other recommendations, SDSCF proposed transforming senior centers into one-stop service hubs for older adults, creating a place where older adults can access programs and essential resources that address their physical, mental, and financial health. Integrating County services in senior centers will provide direct access to a variety of health and community services including public assistance, outreach, veterans' services, behavioral health services, housing services, aging services, homeless services, and public health services.
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