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 On March 20th, the Jewish Community
Foundation launched Third Thursday Connections, a monthly series designed
to bring together individuals who associate with the Foundation to learn
and converse about community needs and philanthropic strategies. The
first topic Living Longer Living Well addressed the growing needs of
seniors in our community.
The Jewish Community Foundation welcomed Paul Downey,
President & CEO, Senior Community Centers; Jill Borg Spitzer, CEO,
Jewish Family Service; Craig Lambert, Senior Director of Older Adult
Services, Jewish Family Service; and Betty Byrnes, Chair, Jewish Senior Services
Council. Each panelist was asked to identify what they see as the top
two needs of seniors in San
Diego.
Paul Downey:
Affordable Housing: Due to housing being so expensive, seniors are dedicating 75% to
80% of their income to rent a single occupancy room in Downtown San Diego
(approximately 100 sq. ft. of living space) which leaves them little money
for basic human needs such as food.
Advocacy: The
poverty income level, which is currently $10,200, is set by the government
as a national standard. In San Diego County,
a senior needs $23,000 to meet basic needs. By advocating for seniors
in Washington and Sacramento and our community, we will be
able to plan and be proactive for the years to come.
Jill Borg Spitzer:
 Poverty: As a
recession approaches, we must be prepared to recognize that there are
Jewish elderly who live below the poverty level; many of which are
Holocaust survivors. Poverty and seniors is a pervasive issue that is
not widely understood.
Loneliness: Many
seniors are faced with loneliness, especially after a spouse passes
away. Without access and connection to community events and
activities, seniors risk getting lonely, which can lead to depression and
“aging longer”.
Craig Lambert:
The Future of Senior Centers: With the paradigm shift for an array of services,
including health, recreation, mental well-being and education, the future
of senior centers will change. Craig discussed a new concierge-like
approach which would offer a package of basic and value-added programs.
NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities): Due to a large number of seniors wanting to age in
place, there will be a push for services brought to seniors and for seniors
to have resources for home delivery.
Betty Byrnes:
Transportation: Without a means of transportation, seniors are
separated from the community for events, synagogue, and other social
events. Additionally, seniors will not be able to fulfill their basic
needs to get to doctors’ appointments and the supermarket.
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