Redwood City – San Mateo County Health’s Aging and Adult Services division has changed its name to Aging and Disability Services. The updated name reflects a growing national movement to acknowledge the needs of persons with disabilities alongside older populations who at times may themselves need long-term services and supports. The renaming follows similar changes in Los Angeles and San Francisco counties.
Aging and Disability Services supports older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers through programs that promote independence, safety and well-being. Programs include In-Home Supportive Services, which provides caregiving assistance to persons eligible for Medi-Cal and living with disabilities or functional limitations, and Adult Protective Services, which investigates and responds to situations of abuse and neglect of older and dependent adults. The Public Guardian and Public Administrator programs provide services for conservatorship and estate management for those unable to manage their affairs and have no one else to do so.
Aging and Disability Services also serves as the local Area Agency on Aging, a federally designated agency that assesses and plans for the needs of older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers. It also administers federal, state and local funding for programs and services in San Mateo County.
San Mateo County’s older adults and people with disabilities make up a significant portion of the community. According to the U.S. Census, 25 percent of the county’s residents are 60 years or older, and 10 percent of the population over the age of 18 lives with a disability. As older residents outpace younger residents, the county’s need for comprehensive services that address both aging and disability related challenges and opportunities is more critical than ever.
“The new name ensures that everyone we serve — whether older adults, who may be struggling with limitations, or younger persons living with disabilities — feels recognized and supported,” said Lee Pullen, director of Aging and Disability Services. “This change underscores our commitment to inclusive, person-centered care and aligns with our goal to foster an accessible and supportive community for all.”
For more information about Aging and Disability Services and available programs, visit www.smchealth.org.
Faizus Amin
Public Information Officer
San Mateo County Health
Press Contact: 650-867-1661
Press Email: press@smchealth.org