Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens

Area Agency on Aging - Senior Connection - HICAP

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Request for Proposals 2025-2026

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The Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens administrators of the Area Agency on Aging for Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties announces the release of a

Request for Proposals

for the procurement of social services provided to senior citizens in our communities as authorized by the Older Americans Act and the Older Californians Act. For the Fiscal Year July 2025- June 2026, unless otherwise stated.

 

OAA Title IIIB Supportive Services

Adult Day Care – $49,527 for 4,564 Service Units

  • Services or activities provided to adults who require care and supervision in a protective setting for a portion of a 24-hour day. Includes out of home supervision, health care, recreation, and/or independent living skills.  One Service Unit = 1 hour of care

Homemaker – $44,627 for 2,329 Service Units

  • Performance of light housekeeping tasks in a person’s home and other community settings. Tasks may include preparing meals, shopping for personal items, managing money, or using the telephone, in addition to light housework. One Service Unit = 1 hour of work

Personal Care – $149,114 for 688 Service Units

  • Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and/or health-related tasks provided in a person’s home and other community settings. One Service Unit = 1 hour of care

Residential Repairs and Modifications – $349,320 for 1,270 Service Units

  • Residential modifications of homes that are necessary to facilitate the ability of older individuals to remain at home. One Service Unit = 1 modification

Information and Assistance – $113,162 for 4,800 Service Units

  • A service that provides individuals with information on services available within the community, and links individuals to the services and opportunities. One Service Unit = 1 contact

Legal Assistance – $95,928 for 1,500 Service Units

  • Legal advice, counseling and/or representation by an attorney or other person acting under the supervision of an attorney. One Service Unit = 1 hour of consultation

Mental Health Counseling – $90,146 for 1,500 Service Units

  • Services such as screening, assessment, therapy, counseling, follow-up, and referral to maintain or improve the mental health of older individuals. One Service Unit = 1 hour of counseling

CARS Data Reporting – $11,774 for 350 Service Units

  • Maintenance and training for the use of computer software designed to fit the requirements of the California Aging Reporting System. One Service Unit = 1 hour of support

Ombudsman Services – $496,215 for 2,077 Service Units

  • Advocacy, complaint investigation, and resolution services provided to protect the rights, dignity, and well-being of residents in long-term care facilities, including skilled nursing and residential care facilities for the elderly. One Service Unit = 1 visit to a facility

 

OAA Title IIIE Family Caregiver Support Services

Caregiver Counseling and Support Groups – $156,954 for 1,290 Service Units

  • Counseling – provided to a caregiver by a person appropriately trained and experienced in the skills required to deliver the level of support needed for stress, depression, and loss resulting from caregiving responsibilities. One Service Unit = 1 hour of counseling.
  • Support Groups – group of caregivers that is led by a trained individual, for the purpose of sharing experiences, concerns, and ideas to ease the stress of caregiving. One Service Unit = 1 hour leading a support group

Caregiver Information and Assistance – $2,000 for 180 Service Units

  • Service that provides caregivers with current information on opportunities and services available in the community; assesses the problems and capacities of the individual; links the individual to services; and ensures the individual receives the services they need. One Service Unit = 1 contact

Caregiver Information Services – $1,100 for 5 Service Units

  • A public-facing service and media activity that conveys information to caregivers about available services. One service unit = 1 activity

Older Relative Caregiver Information and Assistance – $2,000 for 10 Service Units

  • Service that provides older caregivers with current information on opportunities and services available in the community; assesses the problems and capacities of the individual; links the individual to services; and ensures the individual receives the services they need. One Service Unit = 1 contact

Older Relative Caregiver Information Services – $1,100 for 3 Service Units

  • A public-facing service and media activity that conveys information to older caregivers about available services. One Service Unit = 1 activity

 

Modernizing the Older Californians Act – MOCA Nutrition

TERM 3 (7-1-2025 – 3-31-2028)

Program Funds:  $654,875

Qualifying Services Include:

Brown Bag – A program that provides both surplus, and donated edible fruits, vegetables, and other unsold food products (perishables) to low-income older individuals age 60+. One Service Unit = 1 bag of food for one individual

Groceries – Assistance to Older Americans Act (OAA) participants age 60+ in the form of food items (shelf-stable).  One Service Unit = 1 bag of food for one individual

Intergenerational Activities – Efforts related to the planning, development, and implementation of activities and programs that bring participants of the Older Californians Nutrition Program (OCNP) together or with individuals under the age of 60. One Service Unit = 1 activity

Title III C Meals, Congregate or Home Delivered – Efforts to modernize and/or expand the OCNP and appeal to new clients through options including, but not limited to:

  • To-Go Meals: Meals that are picked up by OCNP clients (or client’s agent) or delivered to clients who are not comfortable dining in a congregate meal setting or are unable to attend during congregate meal times.
  • Restaurant Option Meals: AAAs and/or nutrition providers contract with foodservice establishments such as restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and grocery stores for hot and/or cold meals. OCNP clients may use vouchers to obtain meals at contracted locations.

 

Applications for these services will be available at the Applicants’ Conference Friday, February 28th, 2025, at 2pm in-person at the office of the Area Agency on Aging 528 South Broadway, Santa Maria CA 93454. A ZOOM link will be available upon request. For additional information, contact Ed Bill, Contracts Manager Area Agency on Aging (805) 925-9554, option 6; Or Ed.Bill@centralcoastseniors.org

RFP Applications are due April 4, 2025 at 5PM PDT.

 

Funding amounts are estimates and are dependent on Congressional and Legislative approval. Descriptions of programs do not represent all requirements. Final allocation of funds and Service Unit minimums determined by the Board of Directors of the Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens.

Medicare Open Enrollment

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To view this information in Spanish, click here.

Medicare Open Enrollment is the annual window from October 15 to December 7 when individuals with Medicare can make changes to their health and prescription drug coverage for the upcoming year. During this period, beneficiaries can:

  • Switch between Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan.
  • Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
  • Join, drop, or switch Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.
  • Update or modify existing plans based on changes in health needs or budget.

It’s an essential time for enrollees to review their current coverage, as premiums, co-pays, drug formularies, and provider networks can change each year. Failing to update plans or check for new options could result in higher costs or loss of coverage for critical services or medications. Any changes made will take effect on January 1, 2025. Take advantage of free resources listed below to ensure your 2025 healthcare needs are fully covered:

The Medicare Plan Finder is an online Medicare.gov tool that helps you look up and compare plans in your area. Contact Medicare at 1-800-633-4227 for more information.

HICAP is a Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program that can help you:

  • Understand your Medicare coverage
  • Compare Supplemental Insurance and Medicare Advantage Plan policies
  • Identify the most cost-effective Prescription Drug Plans
  • Filing Medicare appeals

To schedule an appointment with a HICAP Counselor in San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara County, call (805) 928-5663 or click here.

Have fraud, errors, or abuse regarding your current Medicare?

Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) supports and guides Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers in preventing, identifying, and reporting healthcare fraud, errors, and abuse through outreach, counseling, and education. Contact SMP at 1-855-613-7080 or online here.

Flu Information for Older Adults: 2024-2025 Season

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As we approach the 2024-2025 flu season, it’s especially important for older adults to be aware of the heightened risks and take necessary precautions to stay healthy. Adults aged 65 and older are at increased risk of severe flu complications due to the natural weakening of the immune system with age. Here is what older adults need to know about the flu this season:

Why the Flu is a Greater Risk for Older Adults

The flu can cause more severe illness in older adults, leading to complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization, or even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between 70% and 85% of flu-related deaths occur in people aged 65 and older, and 50% to 70% of flu-related hospitalizations involve this age group.

As we age, our bodies have a harder time fighting off infections, and chronic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease further increase the risk of complications from the flu.

Flu Symptoms in Older Adults

Common flu symptoms in older adults include:

  • Fever or feeling feverish (though not everyone experiences a fever)
  • Cough and sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches

Symptoms can worsen quickly, and sometimes the flu can cause confusion or dizziness, making it harder to detect in older adults. It’s important to seek medical attention early if flu-like symptoms develop.

Vaccination: Your Best Defense

The most effective way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated. For the 2024-2025 flu season, there are two types of flu vaccines specifically recommended for adults 65 and older:

  • High-dose flu vaccine (Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent): This vaccine contains a higher dose of the flu antigen, which helps stimulate a stronger immune response in older adults.
  • Adjuvanted flu vaccine (Fluad Quadrivalent): This vaccine includes an added ingredient (an adjuvant) to help create a more robust immune response.

Both vaccines are quadrivalent, meaning they protect against four different flu viruses. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine which vaccine is right for you.

Additional Preventative Measures

While getting vaccinated is the most crucial step, there are additional ways older adults can protect themselves from the flu this season:

  1. Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public places.
  2. Avoid close contact with sick individuals: If possible, stay away from anyone showing symptoms of the flu.
  3. Wear a mask in crowded spaces: During flu season, consider wearing a mask in crowded or enclosed areas where the virus can spread more easily.
  4. Stay active and healthy: Maintaining a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing chronic health conditions can strengthen your immune system.
  5. Keep your surroundings clean: Frequently disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and your phone.

Early Treatment is Key

If you experience flu symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly. Antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza), can reduce the severity and duration of the flu if taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. These medications can also help prevent complications, making early detection critical.

Conclusion

The flu can be particularly dangerous for older adults, but taking preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene, can greatly reduce the risk. Don’t wait until the flu is widespread—schedule your flu shot early and stay vigilant about protecting your health throughout the 2024-2025 flu season.

For more information, speak with your healthcare provider, or visit the CDC’s website to stay updated on flu activity and guidance for older adults.

CDC Recommendations

San Luis Obispo County Resources

Santa Barbara County Resources

Photo designed by Freepik

Introducing Our New Executive Director

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We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Brian Weaver as the new Executive Director of the Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens Area Agency on Aging.

With a rich background spanning over 30 years in serving seniors, business management, and non-profit experience, Brian brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to our organization.​ Brian’s extensive career has been dedicated to impacting the lives of older adults in meaningful ways, focusing on enhancing their quality of life, independence, health, nutrition, socialization, and well-being. His commitment to these goals, combined with his strategic insight, positions him uniquely to drive our mission forward. Brian is passionate about raising the profile and awareness of our agency, maximizing our reach, and assisting as many older adults in our community as possible.

Beyond his professional achievements, Brian enjoys health, fitness, and exercise. He loves the outdoors, engaging in activities such as hiking, backpacking, bike riding, running, and pickleball. Brian has been married for 30 years, is a proud parent of three grown children, and cherishes his time with them. He looks forward to spending more time traveling across our great country and exploring international destinations. His ability to blend compassion with strategic planning has earned him recognition and respect across the sector, and we are excited for the positive impact he will undoubtedly bring to our agency.

“On behalf of our team, Board of Directors, and Advisory Council, we look forward to carrying on the legacy of our organization by partnering with local organizations to enhance the lives of seniors enabling them to remain independent by providing services, support, and resources. I am pleased to fulfill our mission and serve seniors in our community,” Brian shared.

As our new Executive Director steps into this role, he is eager to meet our community and engage with our supporters. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Brian Weaver. Together, we look forward to a bright future and continued success in our mission. To contact Brian, you can reach out to our agency at (805) 925-9554.

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