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FAMILY AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE

Meeting Date:	06/10/2019
Subject: Adult Protective Services and Challenges for Aged & Disabled Populations
Submitted For:	Kathy Gallagher
Department:	Employment & Human Services
Referral No.:	FHS #45
Referral Name:	Adult Protective Services and Challenges for Aged & Disabled Populations/Elder Abuse
Presenter:	Victoria Tolbert, Aging and Adult Services Director	Contact:	Victoria Tolbert (925) 608-4805

Information

Referral History:

On May 23, 2000, the Board of Supervisors referred to the Family and Human Services Committee an annual report on the progress made on the issue of elder abuse in Contra Costa County. Between 2000 and 2015, Committee has received an annual status report from the Employment and Human Services Department. The most recent status update was provided to the Board of Supervisors in November 2018.

When FHS last received an update, Ms. Tolbert reported that the two major challenges facing the aging population are housing insecurity and poverty. Ms. Tolbert explained that Aging and Adult Services offers a continuum of services that address a range of needs. Examples of services include putting safety features in the home, a Whole Person Care program for individuals with significant medical issues, adult protective services, and “no wrong door”.

Supervisor Andersen asked what number people should call for support: It is 1-800-510-2020. Ms. Tolbert reported that awareness of this number has increased. Supervisor Andersen supported increasing awareness of this number.

An internal challenge to the Department that Ms. Tolbert reported on was the shortage of direct services staff, particularly social workers and in-home support services staff. She indicated that it is a priority with Kathy Gallagher, David Twa and Human Resources. Also, the Department is working on placing more energy into staff development to internally build the needed knowledge and skill sets.

Aging and Adult Services is working to identify non-licensed facilities and help them achieve licensing to increase supply. An option discussed was creating a County certification, so if they cannot obtain a state license, they come out of the shadows and have some oversight.

Another issue discussed were hospitals lacking safe locations to which to discharge patients. Aging and Adult Services coordinates with discharge planners and hospitals to coordinate safe discharges. Possible legislation would ban hospital discharges to shelters without an available bed. Senior specific shelters would help to close the capacity gap.

The department made a final request for the Board of Supervisors to engage in supporting and spreading awareness about these services.

Referral Update:

Please see the attached status report.

Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):

ACCEPT the report from the Employment and Human Services Department on aging and adult services, highlighting challenges facing elders.

Fiscal Impact (if any):

No fiscal impact.

Attachments
Challenges for Aged and Disabled Populations