West Hollywood’s Older Adults Advisory Board (OAAB) convened on May 14 to confront federal funding cuts threatening healthcare services, while showcasing robust support systems for aging in place during a televised meeting at City Council Chambers. The session, addressing older adults’ needs amidst policy challenges, highlighted advocacy efforts and the West Hollywood Care Team’s role in fostering independence and social connection for seniors.
Karen Eyres of the Human Services Commission raised alarms over federal cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and HIV/AIDS services, calling them “devastating.” She detailed a march on Santa Monica Boulevard with 250–300 healthcare providers protesting the reductions, which jeopardize older adults’ services and HIV prevention across LA County. Eyres noted the LA LGBT Center’s recent funding slash, tied to Trump administration policies, with counties as pass-throughs. She reassured attendees that the city’s Human Services Division is pursuing state-level gap funding, meeting with providers to mitigate impacts. Council Member John Erickson reinforced this commitment, announcing a $400,000 investment in Project Angel Food and plans to tap city reserves, vowing to protect services “over our proverbial dead bodies.” Rick Watts, representing the Disabilities Advisory Board, cited Hubert Humphrey’s moral test of governance—protecting the aged, sick, and needy—urging citizens to defend democracy against these threats. He also shared that board member A. Lee Walkup, a retired Navy lieutenant commander and 40-year Gay Men’s Chorus member, is recovering from a hip injury sustained while serving others.
Ayana Rose of the West Hollywood Care Team, launched in 2023 by Sycamores, presented their 24/7 crisis response program, emphasizing support for aging in place. With 77% of adults over 50 preferring to stay home (per AARP), the Care Team assists with home modifications (e.g., grab bars, non-slip flooring), health management (e.g., linking to JFS for food security), and social connections (e.g., reuniting families, as with a client in Arizona). They provide technology like medical alert systems, support pets with vet services, and combat isolation through “friendly telephoning”—organic check-ins reducing loneliness. Rose highlighted their role as a conduit, ensuring secure linkages to services like JFS and Step Up on Second, with follow-ups to confirm continuity. Board Member Wendy J. Carrel raised concerns about unhoused individuals, citing a recent death at 8730 Santa Monica Boulevard, prompting Rose to outline welfare checks and rapport-building, accessible via a new public-facing phone number. The team also collaborates with Holloway housing, potentially aiding unhoused clients.
Board members voiced advocacy goals, with Richard C. Leroy expressing frustration over limited engagement, pushing for discussions on west-side park privatization. Staff announced a utility assistance workshop on May 15 at the Aquatic and Recreation Center, a future pedestrian safety item, and the next meeting on June 25 at West Hollywood City Hall.
