Goal 3: Inclusion & Equity, Not Isolation

As described in the CA Master Plan for Aging, this goal focuses on continuing, evolving and creating new opportunities for meaningful engagement at 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100-plus years old. This goal includes digital technologies, employment and volunteer opportunities. In addition, inclusion and equity for everyone includes ensuring the prevention of elder abuse which can take many forms including physical, sexual, abandonment, isolation, financial, neglect, self-neglect and mental suffering.

California Strategies for this goal are:​

• Inclusion & Equity in Aging​
• Opportunities to Volunteer & Engage Across Generations​
• Leadership in Aging​
• Opportunities to Work​
• Bridging the Digital Divide​
• Protection from Abuse, Neglect & Exploitation

Orange County Results

Key Findings

Nearly one-third of participants identified socialization groups as being an important service for older adults. Participants generally held favorable views of their cities regarding the social, religious, volunteer and other opportunities for involvement available. Participants also tended to rate their cities favorably on having public places in which to spend time, although ratings trended lower in central and north Orange County. Participants were consistent in not viewing their cities favorably on employment opportunities, with the lowest ratings observed in coastal and unincorporated areas. In addition, central and north Orange County cities trended lower in how open and accepting they were towards older residents of diverse backgrounds. Finally, more than half of respondents reported having experienced discrimination based on age (i.e., 70 years and older), race/ethnicity (i.e., Asians) and language (i.e., Korean, Spanish speakers) and nearly one in five participants said that “politics/political climate” contributed to their behavioral health conditions. Thus, to better support inclusion and equity for older adults, Orange County communities should consider strengthening existing and/ or building new support systems for social involvement in a safe and meaningful way for people from across all age groups, cultural backgrounds and inclusive of language access.

Community Ratings

Community

Concern Ratings

Loneliness

“Feeling Lonely & Isolated” 6% of participants identified as a top 3 concern

Click on the category below to view percentages for subgroups with 100 or more responses.

Digital Divide

“Not Being Able to Use Technology” 4% of participants identified as a top 3 concern

Click on the category below to view percentages for subgroups with 100 or more responses.

Companionship

“Losing Respect from Others” 1% of participants identified as a top 3 concern

Click on the category below to view percentages for subgroups with 100 or more responses.