A Pandemic of Older Americans

California Leads the Fight to Protect Older Adults and People With Disabilities

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

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?