Center for Elders' Independence

06/18/2026

As the Juneteenth holiday approaches, we asked one of our participants what the holiday means to her. She reflected on a recent Passover Seder celebration and the connection she sees between the two traditions.

While Passover and Juneteenth commemorate different histories, both speak to the universal desire for freedom, dignity, and belonging. Watch the video to hear her reflections and words of wisdom.

At CEI, we empower senior voices and help older adults stay connected and engaged in their communities. Learn more at our website, elders.org.

06/16/2026

This Pride Month, we're celebrating the voices of LGBTQ+ older adults in our community.

In this video series, you'll hear from CEI participants who have lived through decades of change and want to share a message of pride, resilience, and hope. First up is Shannon, who shares what Pride means to them.

At CEI, the PACE model is built on whole-person care that honors each participant's identity, experiences, and sense of belonging. Stay tuned throughout the month as we continue to share the voices of Pride. For more information about CEI and PACE, visit our website at elders.org.

06/15/2026

This Men's Health Month in June, we're proud to share Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jim Mittelberger's recent interview on KTVU FOX 2, where he discussed the importance of cardiovascular health and the connection between heart health, brain health, and overall well-being.

The interview comes at a special moment, as Dr. Jim has retired from CEI after years of dedicated service to older adults and the communities we serve.

Throughout his career, Dr. Jim has been a trusted physician, educator, and advocate for healthy aging—always taking the time to help others understand how small, everyday choices can have a lasting impact on health and independence.

Please join us in thanking Dr. Jim for his leadership and wishing him all the best in retirement and the adventures ahead.

06/12/2026

As California's budget process enters its final stages, there is an important opportunity to support continued access to care for older adults.

The Legislature's 2026–27 budget agreement rejects proposed cuts to PACE funding and includes investments that support access to critical services for older Californians.

We encourage community members, partners, and advocates to contact Governor Newsom's office and urge him to sign the Legislature's version of the budget. Send a message today: https://www.votervoice.net/CALPACE/Campaigns/138077/Respond

Read CalPACE CEO Val Sheehan's article: https://www.calhealthreport.org/2026/06/11/advocates-try-to-save-crucial-aging-and-disability-programs-on-the-chopping-block/amp/

As California lawmakers race to hash out what will get nixed and what will remain in the state’s strained 2026-27 budget before the constitutional June 15 deadline, aging and disability advocates are sounding alarms.

06/12/2026

As California lawmakers work to finalize the 2026–27 state budget, proposed cuts to aging and disability services could have significant consequences for vulnerable residents across the state.

Programs like PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) provide comprehensive, community-based care that helps older adults remain independent, improves quality of life, and reduces reliance on more costly institutional settings. However, proposed provider rate reductions could undermine access to these critical services.

In a recent California Health Report article, Center for Elders’ Independence’s CEO Maria Zamora joined CalPACE CEO Val Sheehan in calling attention to the impact these proposals could have on older adults, people with disabilities, families, and caregivers.

We encourage policymakers and community members to support investments in proven, person-centered care models that strengthen communities and improve outcomes.

Learn more:

06/12/2026

The impact of care reaches beyond the individual.

Hear from family members as they share how CEI supports their loved ones with compassion, dignity, and a true sense of connection—bringing comfort to the whole family.

Visit elders.org to learn more about CEI's mission and care model.

06/09/2026

This Pride Month, we're sharing the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ older adults in our CEI community.

Meet Buddy, who reminds us that Pride isn't just something celebrated for a day or a month—it's something lived every day. At CEI, the PACE model is built on whole-person care that honors each participant's identity, experiences, and sense of belonging.

06/03/2026

Participants from CEI PACE Temescal and East Oakland enjoyed a special outing to see the 1978 musical classic The Wiz at the Landmark Piedmont Theatre—complete with a private theater rental!

Field trips like these take a village, and we're grateful to our Activities and Transportation teams for making it easy for participants to get out, connect, and have fun together.

Learn more about PACE at cei.elders.org.

06/01/2026

Carnival came to CEI PACE San Leandro! Participants enjoyed a day of outdoor games, nutritious snacks and sunshine while the team helped create a festive atmosphere.

A special shoutout to Rehab Aide Jonas Francovich, who dressed up as a clown and even showed off his juggling skills for participants.

Moments like these reflect the PACE model of care in action—supporting not only physical health, but also social connection and fun!

For more information at CEI and PACE, visit our website elders.org.

05/28/2026

As we celebrate Older Americans Month, we also join Governor Gavin Newsom in recognizing May as Older Californians Month — honoring the older adults who “immeasurably enrich our families and communities” and provide “invaluable perspectives and knowledge.”

One of those inspiring older adults is CEI PACE participant Tracey Nobil, who continues to advocate for housing and issues impacting seniors in her community. With the support of CEI and the PACE model of care, Tracey is empowered to stay independent, engaged, and connected. In this video, she shares how she went from “living alone to living alone with CEI by my side.”

For more information on CEI and PACE, visit our website elders.org.