Santa Clara County (SCC) has some of the highest priced housing in the nation; with a price increase of 10.4% in 2016, a median sale price of $900,000, and a serious lack of housing. SCC also has the ninth highest rate of homelessness, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Ranked California’s sixth largest county, SCC boasts a population of 1.9 million residents with 17 percent of the population—or 361,566 individuals—age 60+, as reported in the Sourcewise Area Plan on Aging for 2016-2020.

The Elder Economic Security Standard Index—a detailed, county-specific measure of senior poverty—finds 49% of SCC seniors age 65+ are living at or below the means necessary to live adequately. In 2016, 2,073 individuals called Sourcewise seeking access to available housing.

To combat homelessness, in June 2016, the SCC Board of Supervisors unanimously approved Measure A, a housing bond providing affordable housing for vulnerable populations including veterans, seniors, the homeless, and others.

An estimated 5,000 affordable housing units will be acquired or built and may assist an additional 1,000 first-time homebuyers in the first ten years. Because homeless individuals tend to be high users of social services, providing permanent supportive housing may save around $42,700 per person annually.

CEO of Sourcewise Steve Schmoll states, “The housing bond is a positive first step to assist our most vulnerable citizens. I urge city officials to work with stakeholders to design housing that supports aging in place. It will be imperative, for any successful long-term plan, to explore non-traditional housing models: group-, micro-, and adaptive housing that promote affordable options for seniors.”

Sourcewise is committed to serving individuals 18+ in SCC, coordinating with other organizations to provide services to low-income, hard-to-reach populations. Speak with a Community Resource Specialist: (408) 350-3200, option 1.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federally funded supplemental income program and is available nationwide. SSI provides assistance for seniors 65+; those who are blind or disabled; with little or no income for life’s necessities: food, shelter, and clothing.

In California, eligibility depends on an individual’s geographic location; income (wages, social security benefits, and pensions); and resources (real estate, bank accounts, stock, bonds, and cash). SSI is managed by the state, causing eligibility and benefits to differ from state to state.

SSI recipients are automatically enrolled in Medi-Cal (a.k.a. Medicaid), allowing access to additional programs including In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) which offers in-home care to support elderly, blind, or disabled Medi-Cal recipients to safely remain at home.

To provide outpatient services, the state government will also buy Medicare Part B for SSI/Medi-Cal beneficiaries once they become eligible for Medicare.

In California, beneficiaries receive additional funds within their SSI payment allotted for food, making them ineligible to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (previously known as Food Stamps).

However, SNAP is available while awaiting approval for SSI; when relocating to another state; or if an SSI application is denied.

If an SSI application is denied (due to medical or non-medical reasons) an individual may appeal the decision. An appeal application is available online and a written appeal is acceptable within 60 days from the date of denial of benefits.

To apply for SSI, contact the Santa Clara County Social Security Office, for benefits screening: (877) 962-3633. For more information, visit: www.ssa.gov/ssi.

Today, as many Americans live longer (well into our 80s and 90s) wise food choices play an important role in our health. Focusing on quality—not quantity—of food selections is important.

Older adults require fewer calories but more nutrients; and more nutrient-rich foods containing potassium, calcium, minerals, fiber, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 are necessary for a healthy senior diet.

Chuck Newcomb, Consulting Dietitian/Nutritionist of Sourcewise, states, “Getting vitamins and minerals from food is best. These include colorful vegetables, whole fruits, legumes, low-fat meats, and fish.” Chuck provides education about nutritious food choices to the community via Sourcewise and Senior Nutrition Programs.

A resource for selecting smart food choices from all food groups in order to maintain a healthy, balanced diet is available online, visit www.ChooseMyPlate.gov.

Older adults on fixed incomes often find it difficult to purchase healthy, nutritious foods. Congregate meal sites at senior and community centers are available throughout Santa Clara County; as well as food assistance programs including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; and home-delivered meals programs like Meals on Wheels.

Clients of Meals on Wheels receive home-delivered meals that follow dietary requirements for seniors. A registered dietitian develops menus to meet the daily nutritional needs of senior adults.

To learn more about Meals on Wheels of Sourcewise, call: (408) 350-3200, option 1.

Cindy Cooper, 59, was a dedicated participant in Senior Employment Services of Sourcewise who enjoyed her work. Cindy was assigned the position of “Vehicle Assistant” to oversee and maintain the company’s motor pool, ensuring that vehicles were always ready for use.

Sourcewise assists unemployed individuals (aged 55+ who are ready, willing, and able to work) with on-the-job training to help them qualify and re-enter the work force. Participants are interviewed for eligibility and tested to determine their aptitude and interests for various positions within the program.

After only two months in the subsidized position as a “Vehicle Assistant”, Cindy obtained a full-time position with benefits for Bateman Community Living. Bateman prepares and delivers meals to Meals on Wheels clients.

Cindy enjoyed working with Sourcewise, stating, “It taught me patience! The [Employment] program will work for you, and you will get a job—if you work the program.”

Sourcewise entered into an employer reimbursement agreement—502(e) on-the-job experience—with Bateman. The program offers a 30-day reimbursement of Cindy’s salary while she is in training. The agreement provides an incentive for companies to hire Senior Employment participants.

Senior Employment Services Director, Henri Villalovoz states, “Candidates gain contemporary job skills, personal confidence, and a current job reference. Hopefully, this leads the individual to gain the skills that will afford them an unsubsidized job. That’s my ultimate goal, to get them a job.”

In fiscal year 2015-16, Sourcewise assisted 125 individuals with employment: providing 85 with employment assistance and 40 with positions at host training programs (leading to 10 obtaining unsubsidized employment; and 30 individuals to continue training.)

For more information about Sourcewise Senior Employment Services, call (408) 350-3200, option 5.

More than one-third of caregivers suffer from poor health while caring for a loved one, according to data published in the American Journal of Public Health (2002). Caregivers often neglect their own health while providing advanced care for others.

Family caregivers are at risk for chronic or disabling conditions much like the person they care for. In a multifaceted situation, a caregiver’s emotional, mental, and physical health are all affected. As health issues among caregivers increase, health professionals, policy makers, and caregivers themselves strive to ensure mental health and medical services are available for this vital group, increasing and improving options available to caregivers.

Advances in home care technology, limited discharge planning, and shorter hospital stays, also force caregivers to carry a heavier load—both financially and physically. Additional support is needed to maintain their physical and emotional health. Self-care is critical for both caregivers and care recipients.

Caregiver health issues can be alleviated by respite programs to reduce caregiver burden; financial support to reduce economic stress; and education to increase skill levels. Catholic Charities Day Break Adult Day Center and Live Oak Adult Day Services are two options within Santa Clara County offering adult day care. Sourcewise offers the Family Caregiver Support Program to help caregivers find relief—providing a chance to focus on self-care, and to enjoy a well-deserved break.