In a pivotal meeting held on April 19, 2023, California's Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 1 on Health and Human Services gathered to address the pressing needs of the state's aging population and the challenges they face. Under the soft glow of city hall lights, lawmakers and experts convened to discuss the future of health and social services, emphasizing the importance of equity and community-based support as outlined in the Master Plan of Aging.

Chairman of the committee opened the session by acknowledging the significant investments made to bolster programs aimed at assisting older adults and individuals with disabilities. He expressed gratitude for the panelists present, highlighting the urgency of the discussions at hand. Dr. Jackson, a committee member, underscored the looming demographic shift, noting that by 2031, one in four Californians will be aged 60 or older. He stressed the necessity for more senior housing and supportive services, drawing on personal anecdotes to illustrate the challenges families face in caring for aging relatives.

The meeting transitioned to a focus on the Department of Social Services, where Director Kim Johnson presented a comprehensive overview of the programs designed to support California's older adults. She revealed alarming statistics: in 2020, over 112,000 adults aged 65 and older lived below the federal poverty line, and older adults are the fastest-growing demographic experiencing homelessness in the state. Johnson emphasized the department's commitment to ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to stable housing, food security, and necessary support services.

The discussion highlighted several key initiatives, including the Community Care Expansion Program, which has received $860 million to enhance housing options for older adults at risk of homelessness. Johnson noted that the program has already facilitated significant investments across the state, with over $200 million allocated for various projects aimed at preserving affordable housing.

Dr. Margot Couchel, a physician and researcher, provided a sobering perspective on homelessness among older adults. She reported that approximately 65,000 Californians aged 50 and older are currently homeless, with many facing severe health challenges. Couchel called for urgent action, stating that housing is a fundamental necessity for health and well-being. She urged the committee to continue prioritizing investments that prevent homelessness and support older adults in maintaining their dignity and security.

As the meeting progressed, representatives from various organizations, including SEIU, echoed the need for sustained commitment to addressing the crisis of senior homelessness. They emphasized that even in a challenging budget year, the state must not waver in its efforts to provide essential services and support for its aging population.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a growing recognition of the complexities surrounding aging in California. With a rapidly changing demographic landscape, the state faces a critical moment to ensure that all residents, regardless of age or background, have access to the resources they need to thrive. As the committee concluded, the path forward remains clear: a collective commitment to building a California that supports its aging population with compassion and foresight.