L.A. County to Create New Department for Older, Disabled Adults

In California, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors this week moved forward on founding a new county department for serving older and disabled adults, reports SCVNews . Supervisor Janice Hahn commented that current efforts are fragmented and "bringing them under one roof will not only allow us to coordinate our work, but it would also give us the ability to be proactive rather than reactive to address the needs of older adults and adults with disabilities alike." Hahn and fellow Supervisor Sheila Kuehl proposed a new department in 2019, and a report by Dr. Kathleen Wilbur said such a measure is both recommended and necessary to properly serve the senior population. "Between 2010 and 2030, our older adult population will double," said Kuehl. "A standalone department of aging may be the best way to ensure the health and well-being of our current and future older adult populations." The Board approved a motion authored by Hahn and Kuehl instructing the County CEO's office to take the first steps to prepare for establishing the department, including creating a budget, and reporting back to the board in 180 days. The county also will set up a Leadership Council to coordinate the transition and improve coordination of the various departments serving older and disabled adults.