A common question we hear from clients is, “Who should I choose to be my agent for my Durable Power of Attorney and Advanced Healthcare Directive?” This is an important decision, yet many people fail to take the time to consider it or discuss it in detail with the potential agent. This can lead to unpleasant consequences down the line. So how do you choose an agent? A Durable Power of Attorney grants your chosen agent the authority to make
September is National Senior Center Month. Senior centers provide an important venue for elders to socialize, eat a meal, and access important services. Many Contra Costa County cities have seniors centers that host a wide variety of programs. Contra Costa Senior Legal Services understands the important role that senior centers play in the lives of elders. For this reason, we hold many programs at senior centers. Our programs at senior centers include legal clinics and know your rights presentations. Legal
What are they and how do you make them? What is a Reasonable Accommodation request? A reasonable accommodation is: 1) an exception, 2) change, 3) or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice, or service because of a disability. The purpose is to provide tenants with an equal opportunity to use and enjoy the dwelling. See 42 U.S.C. §3604(f)(3)(B); Cal. Gov’t Code § 12927(c)(1). Who can make a Reasonable Accommodation request? A tenant with one or more disabilities; or Any person,
Starting January 1, 2026, significant changes are coming to Medi-Cal asset limits, which will impact how Medi-Cal eligibility is determined for many people. If you or a loved one is navigating long-term care or applying for Medi-Cal, it is crucial to stay informed about these upcoming adjustments. What is changing? Starting January 1, 2026, Medi-Cal will consider assets (what you own) when reviewing eligibility for older adults and people with disabilities as part of the application and renewal process. The
We’re thrilled to welcome Eliot Adelson as the new President of the CCSLS Board of Directors. A partner in Morrison Foerster’s Antitrust Litigation practice, Eliot brings a wealth of legal expertise and a deep commitment to justice. He began his career as a Deputy District Attorney for Alameda County and has continued to serve the public good throughout his career. Eliot has been a dedicated volunteer at our San Ramon Clinic, offering his time and talent to support older adults
July is Disability Pride Month, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and diversity of people with disabilities. It’s a month to celebrate identity, challenge stereotypes, and promote inclusion and accessibility. It also commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990—a landmark law that affirmed the civil rights of millions. Ways to Celebrate Watch for disability-led stories in the news, such as Good Housekeeping, USA Today, and PBS NewsHour. Learn about key moments in
June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Elder Abuse Awareness Month is important because it gives us the opportunity to learn about elder abuse and how we can support those in our community who may be experiencing abuse. According to the California Department of Aging, elder abuse rates in California are rising, with more than 200,000 elder and dependent adult abuse cases reported in the state annually.[1] Given that elder abuse is
In May we honor Older American’s Month. Please read Governor Gavin Newsom’s Proclamation on the many ways older adults strengthen the fabric of our society. This year’s theme is “Flipping the Script on Aging.” The Administration on Aging has more to add about this month and the essential contributions of seniors, read more here.
Contra Costa Senior Legal Services works with many amazing volunteers, all of whom do important work and allow us to serve more seniors. In honor of National Volunteer Month this April, we’d like to spotlight the contributions of one of our committed volunteers, Sora O’Doherty. Sora has been a volunteer with CCSLS since 2016. She volunteers both in our office and out of our office at our legal clinics. Sora is very dedicated to CCSLS. She had always done volunteer
The article Seniors & Snap Myths by the National Council on Aging covers common myths about SNAP. Key Takeaways: Only 55% of older adults age 60+ who qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, take advantage of this valuable food assistance benefit. Several myths about SNAP eligibility and its availability may prevent some people from applying. Applying for SNAP benefits isn’t complicated. Use NCOA’s BenefitsCheckUp.org to help you check your eligibility and learn more on how to apply.
