Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens

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Public Notice: Board of Director Meetings

Public Notice: Monthly Board of Directors Meeting

Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens

The Board of Directors of the Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens invites the public to attend its monthly meetings. These meetings are held in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and the California Department of Aging (CDA) guidelines for public transparency and engagement.

Meeting Schedule:

  • Date: Every 3rd Thursday of the Month
  • Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Location Options:

Join instructions
https://zoom.us/meetings/92330720384/invitations?signature=-9hKls2ZkRCOfB7zRp8Y6qOC1EAOrziHyTPJ87-gTr8

One-Tap Mobile Access:

  • +1 669 444 9171,,92330720384#,,,,*434424#
  • +1 669 900 9128,,92330720384#,,,,*434424# (San Jose)

Agenda Availability Notice

Due to the timing of the Finance Committee meeting (held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month), the full Board agenda may not be available 72 hours in advance. In accordance with the Brown Act:

  • A partial agenda will be posted as early as possible.
  • Any late-distributed materials, including financial reports, will be made available to the public at the same time they are provided to the Board.
  • All materials will be accessible during the meeting and upon request.
  • Click (here) to find meeting materials.

Public Participation

Members of the public are encouraged to attend and may provide comments during designated public comment periods. Written comments may be submitted in advance to:
📧 [seniors@centralcoastseniors.org]

Accessibility

To request accommodations for disability access, please contact:
đź“ž [(805)925-9554]
📧 [seniors@centralcoastseniors.org]
Requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

September Caregiver Events for San Luis Obispo 2025

2025 Older Americans Month Awards

Help us find special people in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties!

The Agency on Aging – Advisory Council will honor deserving people and one senior program in the following categories:

  • Senior Citizen of the Year
  • Senior Worker of the Year
  • Caregiver of the Year
  • Senior Program of the Year

Virtual Celebration and Presentations via Zoom: Tuesday May 27, 2025 1pm. 

https://zoom.us/j/93532228995?pwd=rNJFLa5Do9OVQr1Rt4Rg5PcKkRbVMM.1

Meeting ID: 935 3222 8995
Passcode: 518458

Request for Proposals 2025-2026

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

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

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

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.

Benefits of Adult Day Care

Adult day care allows caregivers to continue working outside the home, receive help with the physical care of a loved one, avoid the guilt of placing a loved one in institutional care, and have respite from what can be a “24/7″ responsibility.

The care receiver can also benefit from adult day care. He or she is able to remain at home with family but does not require 24-hour care from the primary caregiver. Adult day care participants also have an opportunity to interact socially with peers, share in stimulating activities, receive physical or speech therapy if needed, and receive assistance with the activities of daily living with dignity.

A day at an adult day care center could include: supervised care; small group and individual activities such as reminiscence, sensory stimulation, music, art, and intergenerational activities; nutritious meals; transportation; case management; recreation and exercise; nursing care; education; family counseling; assistance with activities of daily living; and occupational, speech and physical therapies. These services are customized to each participant’s needs.

For more information on Adult Day Care services or to find a center near you, contact Senior Connection at (800) 510-2020 or (805) 928-2552. You can also view the centers by clicking below:

Adult Day Centers

Senior Farmers Market Coupons 2024

SFMC

We are all out of coupons for the 2024 season. Check back next summer for the 2025 coupon distribution dates.

The Area Agency on Aging is pleased to announce the availability of a $50.00 coupon booklet for low income senior citizens for the purchase of fruits and vegetables at certified Farmers Markets in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties.

SFMC2015The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is a 100 percent federally funded program which provides low-income seniors with check booklets that can be used to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables at Certified Farmers’ Markets (CFM). The program is administered nationally by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Services Agency (USDA, FNS), and in California, by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA).

At the coupon distribution sites, seniors that meet the age (60 years or older) and low income eligibility (up to $2,322.00 a month) requirements receive one free coupon booklet worth $50 per year. These coupons can be used to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables only at WIC-authorized Certified Farmers’ Markets in this area. They cannot be redeemed for cash. Click below to view the distribution sites:

2024 Distribution Sites

For more information please contact us at (805) 925-9554 or toll-free at 1-800-510-2020.

Vial of Life Logo

Disaster Preparedness

The onset of the fire season on the Central Coast is a reminder that everyone should be prepared for a disaster. This issue provides information about resources for seniors on the Central Coast for:

  • Getting early warning and ongoing information on local and statewide disasters
  • Tips and resources for being prepared for a disaster

A disaster by its very nature is unpredictable and disruptive, but taking the precautions suggested by the resources on this page can help limit the impact on older adults and those with disabilities.

Getting Information on Disasters:

There are several resources available to provide warnings and information on disasters:

 

reverse911Reverse 911– Sheriff’s Office dispatch facility has the capacity to inform the public directly by sending a phone message to each land line phone in the county to inform persons of evacuation orders, missing persons, Amber Alerts, etc. Those residents who have only a cell phone or would like to be notified by cell phone may also sign up on the Sheriff’s website: San Luis Obispo County or Santa Barbara County

 

 

ARCAmerican Red Cross – At the agency’s website people can sign up to receive email disaster alerts and other helpful updates.

 

 

Radiation_warning_symbol_svgDiablo Canyon Warning Siren-San Luis Obispo County’s Early Warning System Sirens would sound to alert area residents and visitors to tune to a local radio or television station for information. The sirens alert you that an emergency is taking place within the County and possibly at Diablo Canyon Power Plant. There are 131 sirens located in Protective Action Zones 1 through 12, stretching from Cayucos in the north to Nipomo Mesa in the south.

 

Radio Ready System- Disaster alerts and information available through radio stations that can continue to broadcast during a power outage. It is recommended that every household should have a hand-crank or battery-operated radio incase of an emergency. Don’t forget to include extra batteries in your emergency kit! In an emergency the regular transmission will be interrupted to broadcast important information like evacuation orders, shelter instructions, and more. Below is a list of radio stations participating in the Radio Ready program for Santa Barbara County:

FM Stations
88.3 KCLU NPR (South Coast)
89.7 KCLU NPR (Santa Maria)
90.9 KCBX (Santa Ynez Valley)
92.1 KCLU NPR (Santa Maria)
94.1 KOSJ (South Coast)
94.5 KSPE SPANISH (Countywide)
95.1 KCBX (Lompoc)
96.7 (Santa Ynez Valley/Solvang)
99.5 KCBX (Santa Maria)
99.9 KTYD (South Coast)
101.7 KLITE/KSBL (South Coast and Santa Ynez)
102.3 KCLU NPR (South Coast)
105.9 KRAZ (Santa Ynez/Solvang)
107.77 KIST SPANISH (Countywide)
AM Stations
990 KTMA (Santa Maria)
1440 KUHL (Santa Maria)
1490 KOSJ (South Coast)
1290 KZSB (South Coast)
1340 KCLU NPR (South Coast)

 

nwsNational Weather Service– Emergency alert radio signals are provided by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS). These radio signals are not accessible over AM/FM radios but are received by NOAA weather radios. Weather alert radios can be used to alert the public of other serious emergencies, not just weather events.

 

 Tips and Tools for Being Prepared:

DPGDisaster Prep Guide- The Area Agency on Aging has produced an Emergency Survival guide to prepare seniors and their loved ones for a disaster. The guide includes:

  • Tips Preparation checklist
  • Local contacts for disaster response

A copy of the guide is in every copy of the Senior Resource Directory and Senior Information Guide. You can also view it online here: Emergency Survival Guide

 

readyReady.gov has information on making a disaster plan, building an emergency kit and more.

 

 

 

Vial of Life LogoThe Vial of Life™ is a way for you to have your vital health information available to first responders. The Vial of Life™ containers can be placed on your refrigerator and contain a medical information card (click here to download a copy ) inside that can list prescriptions, medical conditions, allergies and other information important to your health care. Local first responders are trained to look for the Vial of Life™ when responding to an emergency. The Vial of Life™ containers are available free at local senior centers and the Area Agency on Aging office in Santa Maria.

Emergency Survival Guide Available

The Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens has released an Emergency Survival Guide for Older Adults. The guide provides information about things seniors can do to stay safe before, during and after major emergencies like fires, earthquakes and tsunami’s. As with all of the services provided by the Central Coast Commission for senior citizens, the information is free. Click below to view the guide:

Download-Emergency-Guide.jpg (290Ă—40)

 

 

 

2024 Area Plan Listening Sessions

The California Department of Aging and the 33 Area Agencies on Aging make up the California Aging Network. California 2030 was launched to develop strategies for a future-ready California Aging Network to meet the Master Plan for Aging (MPA) goals by 2030.

As the community and the Area Agency on Aging plan for a future-ready California, we review and consider viewpoints from both the State and local level. Asking are we working to
create an age-friendly community? We are inviting members of the community to review the MPA goals and how best they can address the local concerns and priorities.

Community Input Sought to Create “Senior Friendly” Communities

Come, share your insights to help ensure that limited federal monies are meeting the priorities of senior citizens and family caregivers through the work of the Area Agency on Aging.

Join us in the Listening Session via
Zoom or telephone conference
April 3, 2024
at 1:00 p.m.
Zoom ID: 858 7563 4810
Passcode: 054802
or
Left click HERE for direct access
Access the meeting by toll-free telephone

dial 1-833-548-0276

 

Request for Proposals For Senior Nutrition Services

Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens Area Agency on Aging announces the release of   Request For Proposals for services authorized by the Older Americans Act and Older Californians Act. The services to be funded are:

Title IIIC : Congregate Nutrition

$243,432 for the provision of a minimum 37,800 meals to a minimum 500 senior citizens at the congregate nutrition sites in San Luis Obispo County. The service provider must provide nutrition education. Funding is available 7/1/2024-6/30/2025.  100% of the funding is from federal sources.

$ 1,421 for the provision of 4 sessions of nutrition education presentations (provided quarterly) to 600 senior citizens at the congregate nutrition sites in San Luis Obispo County.

Funding is available 7/1/2024-6/30/2025.  100% of the funding is from federal sources.  Full RFP Here

Title IIIC  Home Delivered Nutrition

$486,863. for the provision of a minimum 106,700 meals to a minimum 750 senior in San Luis Obispo County.  The service provider must provide nutrition education.  Funding is available 7/1/2024-6/30/2025.  100% of the funding is from federal sources. Full RFP Here

Older Adults Recovery and Resilience Act (OARR)- Intergenerational Activities

$469,857 for funding utilized intergenerational activities to support the goal of connecting older adults with children, youth, and adults through the senior nutrition programs. Funding through 6/30/2024.  Full RFP Here

Older Californians Act Nutrition Programs

$2,244,336 for funding Nutrition Services Programs under the OCA Modernization including the following: Brown Bag Nutrition Program, Grocery Services, Inter-generational Activities, Nutrition Infrastructure, Congregate Meals, Home Delivered Meals, and Restaurant Meal Program. Funding Available:  $273,711 for 7/1/2023-3/30/2026, $656,875 for 7/1/2024-3/30/2027, $656,875 for 7/1/2025-3/30/2028, and $656,875 for 7/1/2026-3/30/2029.  Full RFP Here

Applications for these services will be available at an Applicants Conference, Monday, December 11, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. via ZOOM. To secure the link, contact the Area Agency on Aging.

Applications are due January 5, 2024 at 5PM PDT.

For additional information, contact the Area Agency on Aging at 805-925-9554 (option 6) or seniors@centralcoastseniors.org

Copies of the full RFP for each funding opportunity are available using the links below.

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