Years ago, while Linda Cardoza was working at a Fortune 200 aerospace company on the East Coast, devoting time and energy to older Californians wasn’t on her radar.

Upon retiring, Linda’s expertise in finance led her to AARP tax counseling, and eventually, to HICAP, CDA’s Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program.

"I always thought older people are wise and know all the answers, but I found out that wasn’t always the case. A lot don’t understand tax returns or insurance coverage," Linda says. "So, I felt there was a need. It’s being able to apply technical knowledge and making a difference in someone’s life."

Now she leads a small army of dedicated, collegial HICAP volunteers in Orange County. Like Linda, most are retired professionals dedicated to making life a little easier for older adults like themselves.

She has a message for those confused at the web of Medicare options: "My advice is to ask for help. Don’t feel you have to do it alone, because you’re not alone. People think they’re the only ones going through this, but they’re not. There are a lot of services for older adults, regardless of what you’re dealing with. Get in touch with your AAA or call 211 and they’ll lead you to organizations like us."

Linda’s story demonstrates the positive impacts of 50 years of dedicated older adult services in California, highlighting the state’s ongoing commitment to enriching the lives of older Californians.