By 2030, 10.8 million Californians will be age 60 or over, representing one-quarter of the state’s population. This growth rate is larger than any other age group. Older adults have many essential roles in California’s communities: workers, business owners, volunteers, community leaders, mentors, lifelong learners, neighbors, friends, family members, and more. Each role can provide a vital sense of purpose at any age. However, over two million Californians aged 60 and over are economically insecure, struggling to afford the rising costs of housing, health, and care. Almost 30% of older Californians are considered poor or near poor, and significant economic disparities exist, and older Californians are the fastest-growing age group experiencing homelessness.

Take the Age-Friendly Survey

To meet the needs of the growing population of older adults and people with disabilities, as well as ensure that California harnesses their contributions and value, Governor Newsom issued an Executive Order (EO) in June 2019 calling for the creation of an MPA for the state (EO N-14-19). The EO affirmed the priority of the health and well-being of older Californians and the need for policies that promote healthy aging and called for a “blueprint” for state government, local government, the private sector, and philanthropy to prepare the state for the coming demographic changes and to continue California’s leadership in aging, disability, and equity.

California released its MPA in January 2021, outlining five bold goals and twenty-three strategies to build a California for All Ages & Abilities by 2030. California utilizes a Data Dashboard for Aging, a MPA Implementation Tracker, and shares progress updates to track and measure advancements made toward the MPA’s five goals listed below:

Goal 1: Housing for All Stages and Ages
Goal 2: Health Reimaged
Goal 3: Inclusion & Equity, Not Isolation
Goal 4: Caregiving that Works
Goal 5: Affording Aging

Additionally, in June 2021, California became the 8th state to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. As Californians, we can create communities where people of all ages and abilities are engaged, valued, and afforded equitable opportunities to thrive as we age, how and where we choose.

On September 26, 2023, the Vista City Council passed and adopted Resolutions Nos. 2023-168 and 169, Approving the California Department of Aging, Local Aging and Disability planning grant application and submittal. In November 2023, the City of Vista received a grant award for the California Department of Aging and Disability Action Planning Grant to conduct an age-friendly plan for the city of Vista.

The City has partnered with the San Diego Foundation and San Diego State University to complete an Age-Friendly Plan. This plan will be completed with the help of residents, local service agencies, and City Departments to identify what’s important to Vista’s Senior Community.

How can you help?

1. Complete the survey: print copies of the survey will be available at the McLellan Senior Center and at the Vista Library as well as online.
   
   
2. Participate in Community Roundtable meetings: meeting schedule is to be determined, please check back for information.