Santa Monica City Council approves first Aging and Disability Action Plan

September 10, 2025 3:30 PM

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Sept. 10, 2025) - The Santa Monica City Council Tuesday approved the city's first-ever Aging and Disability Action Plan, a three-year roadmap to improve community livability for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers.

Santa Monica is experiencing a demographic shift with nearly one in five residents over the age of 65 and many living with disabilities or serving as caregivers. These trends highlight the importance of planning ahead to keep Santa Monica accessible, inclusive and supportive for people of all ages and abilities. In 2023, the City was awarded funds to create the Plan through a California Department of Aging Local Aging & Disability Action Planning grant.

The development of the plan was guided by the Action Plan Advisory Committee, consisting of community members and city staff. The committee strategized the community needs assessment process which engaged 500+ people who participated through surveys, focus groups and a multilingual open house.

While nearly 70 percent of survey respondents rated Santa Monica as age- and disability-friendly, needs assessment findings emphasized the community's priorities are to: better address affordable housing, make transportation and public spaces more accessible, provide clear multilingual communication, and further strengthen emergency preparedness. With this understanding of community priorities, the Advisory Committee then developed realistic and achievable goals for the city and community to accomplish in the next three years.

The Action Plan goals are focused around five core themes:

• Mobility, Access & Inclusive Public Spaces - safer, more accessible streets, public spaces and transit.
• Connected & Resilient Community - stronger social networks and volunteer opportunities.
• Coordinated Communication & Outreach - clear, timely, multilingual information.
• Housing Stability & Affordability - more affordable options and resources to help residents remain stably housed.
• Inclusive Emergency Preparedness - preparedness education, neighborhood support and emergency services for all.

"This plan reflects the voices of hundreds of residents and gives us a clear, actionable roadmap for the next three years," said Mayor Lana Negrete. "It positions us to build on our strengths and take meaningful steps toward a more inclusive, connected and resilient Santa Monica."

Implementation will begin in early 2026, led by a collaborative of city departments and community partners, with progress updates to the community anticipated every six months. At the end of three years, Santa Monica will provide a final report out to the community and AARP, as part of the city's commitments as a member in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.

For more, visit santamonica.gov - Aging and Disability Action Plan.

Media Contact

Tati Simonian Public Information Officer [email protected]

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Other Services, Programs, Services, Youth And Seniors

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Housing and Human Services