A new county survey sheds light on the mounting challenges facing Santa Cruz County’s aging population, with housing costs and health care access emerging as critical concerns that threaten to push older residents out of their communities.
The survey of 3,200 residents aged 40 and over, released Wednesday, found that 2 in 5 worry they cannot afford to stay in Santa Cruz County as they age. Nearly a quarter of respondents say they relied on free groceries in the past year, highlighting growing financial pressures on the region’s older adults. Participants described escalating rents, rising home repair costs and lengthy waiting lists for subsidized housing units.
In a county that is aging faster than most others in the state, health care access poses another significant hurdle. One in four survey participants reported leaving the county for routine medical care, often because they couldn’t find local doctors accepting Medicare. The problem particularly affects residents with disabilities, low incomes or limited English skills. Many survey respondents also reported difficulties finding mental health services and navigating the health care system.
The survey also revealed a caregiving crisis. Among those 60 and older, 73% said they regularly care for someone with a disability, memory issues or serious illness, often without adequate respite or financial support. Many belong to the “sandwich generation,” simultaneously supporting both children and aging parents, leading to high levels of stress and exhaustion.
Transportation challenges compound these issues. Older adults who depend on public transit described difficulties reaching medical appointments, grocery stores and social services. Those over 75 or with disabilities reported that limited routes and schedules create barriers to participating in community life.
Social isolation emerged as another serious concern, with 1 in 5 seniors reporting feelings of loneliness. Nearly half said they feel unprepared for emergencies. While only 3% reported experiencing abuse or neglect, the report cautioned that such incidents are frequently underreported. Another 7% of respondents said they had fallen victim to financial scams, with isolated and low-income seniors at highest risk.The county said it will use the survey findings to develop a Master Plan for Aging, modeled on a statewide framework. Officials said they also plan to host a “Solutions Summit” that will bring together service providers, advocates and local governments. Read the full report here.
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