Governor Gavin Newsom released an Executive Order to developed a Master Plan for Aging this June. The goal is for the state and local government, the private sector, and philanthropists to “build an age-friendly state so that all Californians can age with dignity and independence.”
California Voters Support the Master Plan for Aging
A new poll that asked 1000 California voters to weigh in on the initiative revealed that an overwhelming majority (76.2%) support the plan. When asked their priorities, 73.6% identified elder abuse prevention among their top priorities, with 34% ranking it first, more than any other single issue. The poll was conducted for We Stand With Seniors, a public awareness campaign co-founded by two nonprofits, West Health and The SCAN Foundation.
CEJC Calls for Spotlighting Elder Justice
The California Elder Justice Coalition (CEJC), a network of 85 organizations, individuals, and coalitions, is urging policy makers to engage in elder justice. They articulated several goals, including providing a “No Wrong Door” approach for reporting elder and dependent adult abuse. They also want to ensure that all older adults have advance health care directives, and that individuals with cognitive impairments or dementia have supports in place. Importantly, CEJC acknowledges that larger issues, such as access to housing and public benefits and freedom from discrimination, are critical to equality for older adults.
Contra Costa Senior Legal Services Supports Older Victims of Abuse
Our Elder Abuse Prevention Project includes a “No Wrong Door” model. This means that elder abuse survivors can more easily access a variety of services. Our partnership includes:
- Adult Protective Services
- Meals on Wheels Diablo Region
- Family Justice Center
- STAND! For Families Free of Violence
- Contra Costa Office of the Ombudsman
- Contra Costa Office of the District Attorney – Victim Witness
- Contra Costa Mental Health Department
If you or someone you know is a victim of elder abuse, call Adult Protective Services at 925-602-4179.