This policy briefing examined a framework for helping elders remain in their homes longer and avoid institutionalization. The event coincided with the release of a CHCF issue brief (available under Document Downloads) about new approaches to supporting elders who wish to remain in their homes, such as innovative community-living models and cooperative care approaches.

The presenters were:

• Jon Pynoos, professor at the USC Andrus Gerontology Center
• Candace Baldwin, senior policy advisor at NCB Capital Impact
• Leane Marchese, executive director of ElderHelp of San Diego
• Grace Cheng Braun, president and CEO of WISE and Healthy Aging

Highlights from the presentation were:

• Jon Pynoos discussed critical issues in housing for older people, including affordability, adequacy, accessibility, and appropriateness.
• Candace Baldwin discussed innovative strategies to support aging in community, including the importance of linking strategy with real-world practices. She presented a number of community approaches including the Village model, which she examined in depth.
• Two existing programs were highlighted: Grace Cheng Braun discussed Santa Monica Village, and Leane Marchese discussed ElderHelp in San Diego. Both serve primarily low-income seniors and rely on little or no government funding. The presenters provided examples of how the programs helped individuals.
• The speakers left the audience with some policy avenues for exploration in the context of aging at home, such as global budgeting, nursing home diversion, home-based chronic disease management, and home- and community-based waiver programs.

The presentation slides are available under Document Downloads. The issue brief is available under Related CHCF Pages.