Topics and Takeaways from the CDA Listening Session

As awareness rises for the problems invading the long-term living industry, there are more and more events to address the concerns of the community. To take part in this trend and to get some real time with community members, the CDA (California Department of Aging) hosted their own event: a Listening Session. 

CDA Listening Session Purpose

As with most sessions of this kind, feedback was one of the primary goals. Talking to community members and industry professionals can help enrich the long-term care facility life and offer important insight that can influence legislation and policy. In the case of the CDA listening session, they were seeking feedback and opinions regarding the California 2025-2029 Older Americans Act State Plan.

a group of people sitting in an auditorium during a conference
Photo by Headway on Unsplash

Listening Session Topics

Of course, since it was the primary focus, the main topic of the listening session was the six goals of the California 2025-2029 Older Americans Act State Plan:

  1. Goal 1: Enhance Outreach, Information and Assistance
  2. Goal 2: Increase Opportunities to Age-in-Place in Home and Community-Based Settings
  3. Goal 3: Prevent Isolation, Promote Inclusion, and Advocate for Elder Justice
  4. Goal 4: Strengthen Partnerships
  5. Goal 5: Advance Strategies to Improve Financial Security and Economic Support
  6. Goal 6: Support Aging Services Providers Statewide

Additionally, housing and aging-in-place became a topic throughout the session covering a state-wide application system, expanded programs, and home modifications. The conservation also covered language access, cultural inclusion, and trainings provided by the CDA.

Takeaways

The ultimate takeaway was the desire of California state administrators and service providers to improve life and services for aging Californians.

“Tell us what we’re missing, what to amplify, and what to prioritize. Your feedback helps us do better.” – Susan DeMarois, CDA Director

Another takeaway was the agreement that care workers are vital to the improved care and life of older Americans. They were called the “connective tissue”, bridging the gap between residents and the care they need. 

Additionally, with the age of technology advancing every day, a major takeaway was that organizations like the CDA need to provide assistance when it comes to using technology, instead of simply providing information and links. 

Finally, equality in communication efforts – including a wider range of language options to help reach a broader number of communities. This also includes “culturally responsive services”.

Ultimately, sessions like this help the organizations who serve underprivileged and vulnerable communities perfect their services and provide the most benefits. To make change, we must have conversations and not just accept feedback, but take action.

If you or a loved one have been the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, call Gharibian Law today for a FREE consultation and the best legal representation.