DATE:
February 28, 2023
17
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT
Title
SUPPORTING SENIOR CENTERS IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
Adults 60 years and older comprise America's fastest-growing population. By 2025, all members of America's largest population group nicknamed the "baby boomer" generation will be at least 60 years old. It is estimated that older adults over the age of 60 will make up 26.3 percent of the San Diego County population by 2030, up from 20.3 percent in 2018.1 It is important that all communities within San Diego County have the capacity to support the unique needs of the aging population.
The maturing of the baby boomer generation creates the need for additional infrastructure and resources vital for the aging population. These needs are not just limited to medical services but include important elements of community, socialization, and enrichment activities. Staying active and connected to others has been demonstrated to stem age-related cognitive and physical declines. In addition, socialization and activities play a key role in addressing behavioral health issues that older adults may experience.
Senior centers are a well-established model for older adults to receive a variety of supports and services that foster healthy aging in safe and welcoming environments. However, not every older adult is able to benefit from senior centers due to a lack of availability in some parts of the region or a lack of sufficient enriching services at some existing sites. Cities run senior centers and provide services. There are two proposed senior centers in the unincorporated area of the County, in Ramona and Fallbrook.
A recent report released by San Diego Seniors Community Foundation called the "San Diego Master Plan for Senior Centers: Every Community Deserves a Modern Senior Center" (Master Plan) details an effort to create momentum and consensus among community...
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