LifeSTEPS co-sponsors bill to improve access to healthcare services allowing older adults to age in place

LifeSTEPS, in partnership with LeadingAge California, cosponsored Assembly Bill 2548, Healthier Homes- Age in Place Nursing Program, to improve access to affordable housing and healthcare services. Authored by Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian (D-Van Nuys), Chair of the Assembly Aging and Long-term Care Committee, AB 2548 will allow seniors to age in place rather than force them to relocate to more expensive healthcare settings. AB 2548 is part of Assemblymember Nazarian’s larger Aging and Long-term Care Bill Package.

“This pilot program acts as a pivotal first step in addressing social inequities facing low-income older adults,” said Beth Southorn, Executive Director of LifeSTEPS. “By helping older adults age in place, we can work to address California’s housing, long-term services and supports, and health care challenges all at once.”

Assembly Bill 2548 will establish the 5-year Healthier Home – Age in Place Affordable Housing Nursing Program in eight counties – Contra Costa, Fresno, Orange, Riverside, Sacramento, San Diego, Shasta and Sonoma. A full-time registered nurse and a full-time community health worker will deliver health education, navigation, and coaching to residents at three affordable senior housing communities in each county. The bill is co-sponsored by LeadingAge California.