CDA is your connection with California’s range of programs, services, and resources for the state’s growing population of older adults, adults with disabilities, residents of long-term care facilities, and family caregivers.

Getting older often changes the way we think about community, health, and support. For some older adults, aging can bring loneliness or uncertainty. Friends and family may live far away. Health needs may change. Daily tasks like preparing meals, getting to appointments, or managing a home can become more difficult over time. Findings from California’s first statewide survey of LGBTQIA+ older adults highlighted the importance of connection, community, and welcoming support systems as people age.

Californians of all ages step up every day to care for loved ones, friends, and neighbors. That might mean driving someone to appointments, helping with meals, or managing medications and memory loss. Even when it starts small, caregiving often becomes more than you expected.

As we age, routines can play an important role in helping us stay active and engaged in daily life. Retirement, health changes, caregiving responsibilities, or losing loved ones can disrupt the structure that once filled each day. Over time, it might feel easier to stay home or withdraw from favorite activities.

Mental health is part of your overall health, and it’s something you can support through small, everyday actions. It’s shaped by consistent habits like how often you connect with others, how you move, and how you take time to reset.

As you get older, when is the best time to time to talk with loved ones about your future? As the saying goes, yesterday was best but today is the next best thing.

Starting the conversation can build confidence, reduce stress, and bring peace of mind for everyone involved.