Aging and Adult FAQ

Answers for older adults, caregivers, and people supporting a parent in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.

Find your starting point

Questions are grouped by topic, with every answer visible for easy scanning. Choose a topic below, or use your browser’s Find command to locate a word or service. For more local options, search the resource directory.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. For suspected abuse, see reporting options or call Adult Protective Services at 1-833-401-0832.

Programs and getting started

What services does your agency provide?

The Area Agency on Aging connects older adults, caregivers, and people with disabilities to programs and local support in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. Start with HICAP Medicare counseling, Senior Nutrition, or the local resource directory.

Senior Connection is a local starting point when you are unsure what kind of help to ask for. The Central Coast Aging and Disability Resource Center also provides information and referrals through the Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens and its partners. Senior Nutrition includes home-delivered meals for eligible homebound adults age 60 and older and community meals at Santa Barbara County sites. See the program page for details.

Where are the local senior centers and what activities do they offer?

Explore the local senior centers directory to find a center and learn about its activities. Contact a center to confirm its current schedule.

Can you help me apply for services?

For help with public benefits such as Medi-Cal, CalFresh, and Social Security Disability, start with the public agency that takes the application. This website does not complete applications. People with disabilities can also contact Access Central Coast (formerly the Independent Living Resource Center) about application and advocacy support.

Money, food, and living at home

Are there programs that can help me pay for rent or utilities?

Some programs help households with limited income pay for rent, utilities, food, or other essentials. Review the Financial Assistance Programs guide (PDF) for possible starting points. The guide is dated June 2023, so confirm eligibility and availability with each provider. You can also search current local resources.

Are there programs that can help me get food?

Local food banks and distribution sites can help individuals and families. Meal programs also serve older adults, including home-delivered meals for eligible homebound people and community dining sites. Explore Senior Nutrition or find food resources by location.

I need repairs made to my house. Is there a program to help?

San Luis Obispo County: CAPSLO Minor Home Repair offers no-cost minor repairs to adults age 60 and older in San Luis Obispo County and the Santa Maria Valley, subject to program requirements.

Santa Barbara County: CommUnify Senior Safe At Home offers safety-focused repairs for eligible older residents. CommUnify also offers utility and weatherization services. Ask the provider about availability in your area.

Where can I find equipment such as a walker or cane?

Loan closets may have donated walkers, canes, and other durable medical equipment. Some senior centers operate them. Find a nearby senior center and ask about its current inventory, or contact Senior Connection for a local referral.

My parents need more help around the house. What services are available?

In-home care agencies can help with personal care and light household tasks such as meal preparation and laundry. Private agencies generally charge by the hour and may require a minimum number of hours. Search for local in-home care or ask Senior Connection for a list.

For people who qualify for Medi-Cal, In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) may help pay for authorized care at home. The county assesses eligibility and needs; some recipients have a share of cost. The Hiring In-Home Help guide (PDF) explains care options and questions to ask when hiring.

My family member can no longer safely stay at home. What other options are there?

Assisted living communities and placement services may help you compare housing and care options. These communities are generally paid for privately. Search the local directory or contact Senior Connection for local lists. If your family member may need skilled nursing care, discuss their care needs with a health professional and compare facilities and coverage before making a decision.

Where can I find low-cost legal advice?

San Luis Obispo County: San Luis Obispo Legal Assistance Foundation offers civil legal help to eligible residents, including older adults and people with disabilities.

Santa Barbara County: Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County offers civil legal services to eligible residents. Contact each organization about its current services and eligibility.

How can I apply for Medi-Cal?

Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid health coverage program. You can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person through a county office. See the California Department of Health Care Services application options.

Safety

What can I do if I believe an elder or dependent adult is being abused?

If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. For suspected abuse in a home or community setting, call Adult Protective Services at 1-833-401-0832. The statewide line connects you to the county agency by ZIP code and is available 24 hours a day.

If the suspected abuse occurred in a long-term care facility, contact the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman: San Luis Obispo County (805) 785-0132; Santa Barbara County (805) 922-1236. The statewide Ombudsman line, 1-800-231-4024, is available 24 hours a day. Read California’s reporting guidance.