California Leads the Fight to Protect Older Adults and People With Disabilities
Was Live Fri, Dec 16, 2022 | 11 am PT
Guest Speakers:
- Susan DeMarois – Director, California Department of Aging
- Dr. Tomás Aragón – State Public Health Officer and Director, California Department of Public Health
- Ana Acton – Deputy Director of Independent Living and Community Access Division, California Department of Rehabilitation
- Jessica Lehman – Executive Director, Senior and Disability Action
- Dr. Donna Benton – Director, University of Southern California Family Caregiver Support Center
News Report of this Media Briefing
Event Overview
- More than 22 percent of Californians are over the age of 65. 70 percent of deaths from Covid-19 are of people ages 65 and older.
- Older adults are now struggling with the multiple viruses, including COVID-19, RSV, and the flu.
- This week’s briefing will focus on how California is taking the lead on care for older adults and those with disabilities, especially amid the winter virus surge.
- Speakers will discuss harm reduction measures such as masking, testing, and simply staying home. Speakers will also share resources the state offers for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers.
- The state of California is looking to the future and California’s Master Plan for Aging (MPA) affirms the priority of the health and well-being of older Californians and people with disabilities. It is a “blueprint” to prepare the state for the coming demographic changes and continue California’s leadership in aging, disability, and equity. How can other states implement California’s novel model?