REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON AGING WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2025 AT 12:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Commission on Aging may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Ryan Sperling, 512-974-3568, Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Richard Bondi, Chair Teresa Ferguson, Vice Chair Austin Adams Suzanne Anderson Martin Kareithi Faith Lane Fred Lugo Gloria Lugo Judi L Nudelman Jennifer Scott AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Luan Tran Preston Tyree Henry Van de Putte Selina Yee The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Aging regular meeting of November 12, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the Intergenerational Day Center Initiative. Presentation by Dr. Jacqueline L. Angel, Wilbur J. Cohen Professor of Health and Social Policy and Professor of Sociology; and Alice Mendoza, Sophie Drelinski, and Kiere Caston, Graduate Students, University of Texas at Austin LBJ School of Public Affairs. 3. Presentation regarding the development of a report to understand and address disparities in community conditions across neighborhoods and feedback. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr. and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity & Inclusion. 4. Update regarding topics discussed at the December 3, 2025 Joint Inclusion Committee meeting as related to the Commission on Aging. 5. Discussion regarding the status of the Commission on Aging’s FY2025-2026 budget recommendations and the City’s upcoming FY2026-2027 budget process. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve the formation of a FY2026-27 Budget Recommendation Working Group to provide budget recommendations for the City of Austin’s FY2026-27 Budget. 7. Approve changes to working group membership. 8. Approve a recommendation to City Council to change the icon for “65 and older” on the City Demographers website. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 9. Update from the Quality-of-Life Study Working Group sharing the current status and the expected path forward. FUTURE …
Commission on Aging REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, November 12, 2025 The Commission on Aging convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 1101, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Ferguson called the Commission on Aging Meeting to order at 12:15 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Teresa Ferguson (Vice Chair) Faith Lane Gloria Lugo Judi Nudelman Luan Tran Henry Van de Putte Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Suzanne Anderson Martin Kareithi Fred Lugo Jennifer Scott Preston Tyree Selina Yee PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Dr. Obiageli Chukwuneke – Equitable Aging for Older African Immigrants APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Aging regular meeting of October 8, 2025. The minutes of the October 8, 2025 meeting were approved on Commissioner Motion Van de Putte’s motion, Commissioner Scott’s second on an 11-0-1 vote. Commissioner Gloria Lugo abstained. Chair Bondi and Commissioner Adams were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Presentation regarding the status of the Quality of Life Survey. Presentation by Emily D. Tisdale, M.Ed., Executive Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community; and 1 Amanda Heckelsberg Wolfe, M.A., Senior Project Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community. The presentation was provided by Amanda Heckelsberg Wolfe, M.A., Senior Project Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community. 2. Presentation regarding cuts to Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for older adults. Presentation by Beth Corbett, Vice President of Government Affairs + Advocacy, Central Texas Food Bank. The presentation was provided by Beth Corbett, Vice President of Government Affairs + Advocacy, Central Texas Food Bank. Commissioners Tyree, Anderson, and Lane left the dais during this item. 3. Discussion regarding the progress of Resolution 20250605-084. Discussion was held. 4. Discussion regarding feedback on the Aging Boldly Conference. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the formation of a working group to perform an in-depth analysis of the Quality of Life Survey Report to fully understand the report and associated recommendations. The motion to approve the formation of a working group to perform an in-depth analysis of the Quality of Life Survey Report to fully understand the report and associated recommendations was approved on Commissioner Van de Putte’s motion, Commissioner Nudelman’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Anderson, Lane, and Tyree were off the dais. Chair Bondi and Commissioner Adams were absent. Members: Commissioners Nudelman, Tran, Gloria …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20251210-008: Older Adult Icon on City Demographer Website WHEREAS, the City of Austin has formally committed to becoming an Age-Friendly City through its adoption and continued implementation of the Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan (AFAP), which emphasizes creating a community where older adults are respected, included, and supported across all domains of livability 1; and WHEREAS, the Austin City Council has issued multiple proclamations recognizing Ageism Awareness Day in recent years 2, affirming the City’s commitment to combating ageism and challenging harmful stereotypes associated with aging; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s broader Equity and Inclusion goals call for policies, practices, and public communications that avoid stereotypes and promote fair, inclusive, and accurate representation of all residents; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin Demographic Website currently uses a human figure with a cane as the icon to represent the population “65 and over” 3; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Aging finds that this imagery, while likely unintentional, reinforces outdated and harmful stereotypes that equate aging solely with frailty, infirmity, and physical decline; and WHEREAS, Austin’s older adult population is diverse, active, and engaged, including workers, caregivers, volunteers, artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who contribute significantly to the social, cultural, and economic life of the City 4; and WHEREAS, the current icon does not reflect this diversity of experience nor align with the City’s age- friendly, equity-focused, and anti-ageism values; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Austin Commission on Aging formally recommends that the Austin City Council direct the appropriate City department(s) to: 1 https://www.idealist.org/en/government/84fca403523549ec9583c36ee83361f5-austin-public-healths-age-friendly-austin- austin?utm_source=chatgpt.com 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=459764, https://austintx.new.swagit.com/videos/273298?ts=1436. 3 https://demographics-austin.hub.arcgis.com/#profiles. 4 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=434253&utm_source=chatgpt.com, https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=453915&utm_source=chatgpt.com. Page 1 of 2 • Replace the existing “65 and over” icon on the City of Austin Demographic Website with a neutral, inclusive, non-stereotypical image that does not imply physical limitation or infirmity; and • Ensure that the replacement icon aligns with the City’s Age-Friendly Austin principles, Equity and Inclusion goals, and anti-ageism commitments; and • Include the Commission on Aging and older adult stakeholders in reviewing and selecting the replacement icon; and • Establish internal guidance or standards for how older adults are visually represented across City web platforms, publications, and data tools to prevent future age-based stereotyping. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging affirms that this recommended change is a low- cost, high-impact action that meaningfully advances the City’s public commitment to respect, …
1 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS BOND PROPOSAL Repurpose Sims Elementary into an Intergenerational Day Center 2 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS VISION & PURPOSE Convert Sims Elementary building into a low-cost Intergenerational Day Center ● ● ● Community hub for services Familiar location and near bus stops Convenient location for families who take care of children and their parents Revitalize an underutilized community resource ● ● Opportunities for older adults and children to interact Older adults can share their talents such as gardening or painting 3 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS COMMUNITY NEED As the aging population grows, so does the need for quality caregivers Austin has limited adult day services Higher dependency ratio puts more pressure on working-age adults 4 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS EQUITY & COMMUNITY BENEFITS ● Support low-income and ‘sandwiched’ caregivers ○ ○ Convenient location for families who take care of children and their parents Provide respite for caregivers ● Austin’s Age-Friendly and Livability goals ○ ○ Austin’s commitment to becoming “the most livable city for all identities” Expands access, removing barriers, and fostering inclusion ● ● Current resources are geographically concentrated with uneven access. Fragmented resources–co-location matters 5 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS BUDGET, FEASIBILITY, AND PUBLIC- PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS Proposed Bond Amount: $20 million St. David’s Foundation P3s: ● ● Meals on Wheels ● Community Non-Profits Through a multi-sectoral approach we will build partnerships, the center will share operational responsibilities and engage in networks aimed at older adults, caregivers, and families. - - - Lowers capital and operational expenses Builds public confidence Supports long-term continuity of services 6 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS EVALUATION AND SUSTAINABILITY ● Community Based Participatory Research ○ ○ Routine surveys Program updates ● Annual Activity and Evaluation Report ○ ○ ○ Co-production Community outreach & impact Achievements & insights ● Accountability ○ ○ Participant steering committee Aging and IDC Coalition initiative is an emerging oversight and learning network! 7 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS POLICY ALIGNMENT 1. RESOLUTION 84 2. Age-Friendly Action Plan ● ● Expand intergenerational programming Address underfunded recreational centers ● Measurable progress ○ ○ ○ Proposed assisted living Community support Social inclusion 3. Texas Aging Strategic Plan FY 2025-2030 ● ● Improve access to services Increase cross-agency collaboration to streamline accessibility and eligibility 8 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS POLICY ALIGNMENT 4. Intergenerational Day Center 5. Efficiency & Impact ● Close access gaps Transportation access ○ ○ Neighborhood cohesion Affordable childcare ○ …
Mapping Opportunity Gary Aaron | Business Process Consultant Sr. Shivani Datar | Business Process Specialist City of Austin's Commitment In every community, there are conditions—some visible, others deeply embedded—that shape how people live, work, and move through the city. Austin is committed to becoming the most livable city for all identities… Mobility Index The City is developing an index to better align department priorities with community priorities. This index will help: Identify neighborhood- level conditions that affect people’s daily lives Identify where barriers to opportunity persist Guide service delivery and decision-making with data and community insight Purposeful Design Neighborhood-level conditions are grouped into themes Reflect core dimensions of community life Organize conditions into actionable categories Identify shared needs and track progress ex. Limited English Proficiency ex. Median Household Income Belonging & Mobility Livelihood & Work Health & Well Being ex. Access to Health Insurance Indicators Health & Wellbeing ⚬ Access to Health Resources ￭ Percent uninsured ￭ Percent of children in poverty ⚬ Functional and Physical Health Context ￭ Residents with a disability ￭ Estimated Annual Loss Due to Environmental Hazard & Weather Livelihood & Work ⚬ Economic Stability Indicators ￭ Median household income ￭ Is this tract in concentrated poverty? ￭ Underemployment rate ⚬ Housing Stability and Cost Burdens ￭ Eviction Rate ￭ Percent living in poverty ￭ Percent of income spent on utilities Belonging & Mobility ⚬ Social Inclusion and Access ￭ Percent of households that speak limited English ￭ Percent of households with no internet access ￭ Percent of population aged 65+ with an ambulatory difficulty ⚬ Education, Environment, and Household Supports ￭ Percent of people with less than a high school diploma ￭ Percent of people with low physical activity ￭ Household Support Risk Score Building Together | Listening to What Matters Most to Our Community ❖What do you see as the most important issues or opportunities in your community today? ❖In your view, what are the key drivers of success or opportunity in your community? ❖What changes would have the greatest impact on mobility and opportunity in your community? Thank You!
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON AGING WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2025, 12:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Commission on Aging may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Ryan Sperling, 512-974-3568, Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Richard Bondi, Chair Teresa Ferguson, Vice Chair Austin Adams Suzanne Anderson Martin Kareithi Faith Lane Fred Lugo Gloria Lugo Judi L Nudelman Jennifer Scott Luan Tran Preston Tyree Henry Van de Putte Selina Yee Asif Zaidi PROCLAMATION AGENDA Proclamation – National Family Caregiver Month – To be presented by Councilmember Marc Duchen CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Aging regular meeting of October 8, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Presentation regarding the status of the Quality of Life Survey. Presentation by Emily D. Tisdale, M.Ed., Executive Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community; and Amanda Heckelsberg Wolfe, M.A., Senior Project Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community. 2. Presentation regarding cuts to Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for older adults. Presentation by Beth Corbett, Vice President of Government Affairs + Advocacy, Central Texas Food Bank. 3. Discussion regarding the progress of Resolution 20250605-084. 4. Discussion regarding feedback on the Aging Boldly Conference. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the formation of a working group to perform an in-depth analysis of the Quality of Life Survey Report to fully understand the report and associated recommendations. 6. Approve the formation of a budget working group to formulate budget recommendations for the FY2026-27 budget. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request …
Commission on Aging REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 8, 2025 The Commission on Aging convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 1101, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Ferguson called the Commission on Aging Meeting to order at 12:12 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Teresa Ferguson (Vice Chair) Luan Tran Henry Van de Putte Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Martin Kareithi Faith Lane Fred Lugo Judi Nudelman Jennifer Scott Preston Tyree PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Aging regular meeting of September 10, 2025. The minutes of the September 10, 2025 meeting were approved on Commissioner Van de Putte’s motion, Commissioner Scott’s second on a 9-0 vote. Chair Bondi and Commissioners Adams, Anderson, Gloria Lugo, and Zaidi were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding community engagement efforts for the Quality of Life Study. Presentation by Laura Cortez, CEO, and Nirali Thakkar, Engagement Consultant, Cortez Consulting. Presentation by Laura Cortez, CEO, and Nirali Thakkar, Engagement Consultant, Cortez Consulting. 1 3. Discussion regarding Austin Public Health’s response to City Council on Resolution 20250605-084. Presentation by Halana Kaleel, Public Health Community Engagement Specialist, Austin Public Health. Presentation by Halana Kaleel, Public Health Community Engagement Specialist, Austin Public Health. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discussion and possible action to approve the amended Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan. The motion to approve the amended Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan was approved on Commissioner Scott’s motion, Commissioner Van de Putte’s second on a 9-0 vote. Chair Bondi and Commissioners Adams, Anderson, Gloria Lugo, and Zaidi were absent. 5. Approve the Commission on Aging’s 2026 Annual Schedule. The motion to approve the Commission on Aging 2026 Annual Schedule and eventually schedule a November 2026 meeting was approved on Vice Chair Ferguson’s motion, Commissioner Van de Putte’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Tyree was off the dais. Chair Bondi and Commissioners Adams, Anderson, Gloria Lugo, and Zaidi were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the Community Outreach Working Group regarding progress on the transition plan and recent meeting with the Foster Grandparent Program. Item 6 was taken up before Item 5 without objection. Update by Commissioner Tran. 7. Update from the FY25-26 Budget Recommendation Working Group regarding its progress tracking the Commission on Aging’s budget recommendations throughout the approval cycle. Withdrawn without objection. 8. Update from the …
Amanda Heckelsberg Wolfe, MA Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study Understanding & Supporting Our Aging Community Overview: Key Players City Partners ◼ City of Austin - Office of Equity and Inclusion, Austin Public Health ◼ Commission on Aging (CoA) ◼ Center for Aging & Community (CAC) – Research lead ◼ Cortez Consulting Services (CCS) – Community engagement team ◼ Community Organizations - 30+ partner organizations across all districts Project Timeline • August 2024 – study planning began • January 2025 – first IRB approval obtained Planning • January-March 2025 - Focus groups conducted (9 groups, Focus Groups 181 useable participants) • February 2025 – second IRB approval obtained • July-September 2025 - Survey distribution period (1,027useable responses) Surveys • Summer 2025 - PhotoVoice sessions at RBJ Residences • September 25, 2025 - PhotoVoice exhibit at RBJ • November 2025 – Study ends Photovoice Why Focus on Older Adult Quality of Life in Austin? The Growing Reality ◼ 25% of Austin's population (243,750 people) are 50 years or older ◼ Residents 65+ are the fastest-growing age group ◼ By 2035, adults 65+ will outnumber children under 18 nationally Austin's Diversity Challenge ◼ 32% Latinx, 9.5% Asian American, 7.5% Black, 48% White ◼ 38% live alone, 11% live with disabilities ◼ 13% live below federal poverty level ◼ Nearly 1/3 speak a language other than English at home The Problem ◼ Previous city surveys successfully reaching white women from limited districts - missing the voices of many of Austin’s residents Ms. Carol August 10th, 2025 - Austin City Hall Let us in! The difference between 55, 75, and up is huge. Every age group of older adults has different needs. Older adults are such a big population in Austin. We should be represented. Our Participant Contributors Populational Inclusion Sample Size Asian or Asian American 262 Black or African American 131 Latino/a/e/x or Hispanic LGBTQIA+ People with disabilities Income at or below 60% MFI 147 134 419 488 All districts proportionally represented D6 = 30 (smallest) D10 = 146 (largest) Caregivers 292 Who Participated ◼ Total Survey Participants: 1,027 older adults ◼ Total Focus Group Participants: 172 older adults ◼ PhotoVoice Participants: RBJ Residences seniors Representation Achieved ◼ 26 languages spoken (18% spoke at least two languages) ◼ All 10 City Council districts and the metropolitan area represented ◼ Intentionally oversampled previously missing groups Participant Demographics Participant Age Distribution (n=1,070) 5.5% 0.4% …
Food Insecurity Among Older Adults in Central Texas Presentation to the Commission on Aging Impact of recent federal legislation on SNAP and programmatic solutions CTFB | Commission on Aging_ CTFB_11/12/25 Food Insecurity Among Older Adults in Travis County • 612,475 Central Texans face food insecurity (1 in 5) • 101,934 are older adults (60+) • 33,094 in Travis County (1 in 6) • 12,074 enrolled in SNAP • 3,774 between 60-64 Average SNAP benefit in Travis County: $363/month CTFB | Commission on Aging_CTFB_ 11/12/25 Impacts of Reconciliation Bill - SNAP • Changes to work requirements for SNAP eligibility • Increases cost share for states (Admin and Entitlement) • Elimination of SNAP Nutrition Education program Increase in ABAWD work requirement age limit to 64 – effective 11/01/2025 Fulfill 20 hours/week to remain eligible for SNAP 50% administrative cost to states, sliding scale for entitlement cost based on error rates Potential impact in Texas: $1.1B CTFB | Commission on Aging_CTFB_11/12/25 Impacts of Federal Shutdown – SNAP • HHSC announced delays in SNAP benefits for the month of November on 10/27 due to the shutdown • Subsequent guidance from USDA authorized partial payment of benefits using the SNAP contingency fund • HHSC is abiding by that most recent guidance (despite ongoing litigation) • First time in history SNAP benefits have been delayed Some recipients began receiving partial SNAP payments on 11/10 Capped at 65% of monthly benefit amount, some households receive 0% November benefits will be reimbursed in full for all recipients once the government reopens CTFB has increased food at distributions by 50%, spending $1M/week to keep up with increased need CTFB Programs for Older Adults CTFB | Commission on Aging_CTFB_11/12/25 Senior Programs Our Senior Programs provide older adults with access to essential groceries through CSFP, HOPE, and Golden Harvest Markets, offering convenient options like delivery and proxy services to ensure nourishment and independence. CTFB | Commission on Aging_CTFB_11/12/25 Direct Programming for Older Adults CSFP in Travis County HOPE in Travis County Golden Harvest Market • Federal food box program authorized in the Farm Bill • States set caps on the number of participants • CTFB sites: 23 • CTFB clients: 3,048 individuals (max allotment) • CTFB program established as an alternative to CSFP to increase our ability to serve older adults • 10 sites located at community centers, apartment complexes and partner agency locations across the county • NEW CTFB program …
Commission on Aging REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, November 12, 2025 The Commission on Aging convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 1101, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Ferguson called the Commission on Aging Meeting to order at 12:15 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Teresa Ferguson (Vice Chair) Faith Lane Gloria Lugo Judi Nudelman Luan Tran Henry Van de Putte Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Suzanne Anderson Martin Kareithi Fred Lugo Jennifer Scott Preston Tyree Selina Yee PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Dr. Obiageli Chukwuneke – Equitable Aging for Older African Immigrants APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Aging regular meeting of October 8, 2025. The minutes of the October 8, 2025 meeting were approved on Commissioner Motion Van de Putte’s motion, Commissioner Scott’s second on an 11-0-1 vote. Commissioner Gloria Lugo abstained. Chair Bondi and Commissioner Adams were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Presentation regarding the status of the Quality of Life Survey. Presentation by Emily D. Tisdale, M.Ed., Executive Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community; and 1 Amanda Heckelsberg Wolfe, M.A., Senior Project Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community. The presentation was provided by Amanda Heckelsberg Wolfe, M.A., Senior Project Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community. 2. Presentation regarding cuts to Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for older adults. Presentation by Beth Corbett, Vice President of Government Affairs + Advocacy, Central Texas Food Bank. The presentation was provided by Beth Corbett, Vice President of Government Affairs + Advocacy, Central Texas Food Bank. Commissioners Tyree, Anderson, and Lane left the dais during this item. 3. Discussion regarding the progress of Resolution 20250605-084. Discussion was held. 4. Discussion regarding feedback on the Aging Boldly Conference. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the formation of a working group to perform an in-depth analysis of the Quality of Life Survey Report to fully understand the report and associated recommendations. The motion to approve the formation of a working group to perform an in-depth analysis of the Quality of Life Survey Report to fully understand the report and associated recommendations was approved on Commissioner Van de Putte’s motion, Commissioner Nudelman’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Anderson, Lane, and Tyree were off the dais. Chair Bondi and Commissioner Adams were absent. Members: Commissioners Nudelman, Tran, Gloria …
Commission on Aging Community Interest Announcement The Rebekah Grand Opening Celebrate the grand opening of Austin’s newest affordable apartment development for active seniors! Wednesday, October 22, 11:30 A.M. RBJ Residences 1320 Art Dilly Dr, Austin, TX 78702 A quorum of Commission on Aging members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. For more information, please contact: Ryan Sperling 512-974-3568 Ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON AGING WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2025 AT 12:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Commission on Aging may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Ryan Sperling, 512- 974-3568, Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Richard Bondi, Chair Teresa Ferguson, Vice Chair Austin Adams Suzanne Anderson Martin Kareithi Faith Lane Fred Lugo Gloria Lugo Judi L Nudelman Jennifer Scott AGENDA PROCLAMATION Luan Tran Preston Tyree Henry Van de Putte Asif Zaidi Proclamation – Ageism Awareness Day – To be presented by Councilmember Marc Duchen CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Aging regular meeting of September 10, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding community engagement efforts for the Quality of Life Study. Presentation by Laura Cortez, CEO, and Nirali Thakkar, Engagement Consultant, Cortez Consulting. 3. Discussion regarding Austin Public Health’s response to City Council on Resolution 20250605-084. Presentation by Halana Kaleel, Public Health Community Engagement Specialist, Austin Public Health. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discussion and possible action to approve the amended Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan. 5. Approve the Commission on Aging’s 2026 Annual Schedule. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the Community Outreach Working Group regarding progress on the transition plan and recent meeting with the Foster Grandparent Program. 7. Update from the FY25-26 Budget Recommendation Working Group regarding its progress tracking the Commission on Aging’s budget recommendations throughout the approval cycle. 8. Update from the Federal Budget Reduction Working Group regarding the impact of federal budget reductions on Medicare. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative …
Commission on Aging REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, September 10, 2025 The Commission on Aging convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 1101, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Bondi called the Commission on Aging Meeting to order at 12:15 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Richard Bondi (Chair) Faith Lane Gloria Lugo Henry Van de Putte Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Teresa Ferguson (Vice Chair) Austin Adams Suzanne Anderson Martin Kareithi Fred Lugo Jennifer Scott Luan Tran Preston Tyree Absent: Judi L Nudelman, Zaidi PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Patricia Bordie- Ageism Awareness Day APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Aging Regular Meeting of August 13, 2025. The minutes of the August 13, 2025 meeting were approved on Commissioner Van de Putte’s motion, Vice Chair Ferguson’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Kareithi was off the dais. Commissioners Nudelman and Zaidi were absent. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on working group formations, accessibility frameworks for City of Austin digital products, upcoming events, and working group updates discussed at the August 27 Joint Inclusion Committee meeting related to the Commission on Aging. Update by Chair Bondi. 3. Presentation regarding the status of the Quality of Life Survey. Presentation by Emily D. Tisdale, M.Ed., Executive Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community; Amanda Heckelsberg Wolfe, M.A., Senior Project Director, University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community; and Nirali Thakkar, LMSW, MPH, Engagement Consultant, Cortez Consulting. Item 3 was postponed until October XX and November XX on Commissioner Van de Putte’s motion, Commissioner Lane’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Kareithi was off the dais. Commissioners Nudelman and Zaidi were absent. 4. Discussion regarding amendments to the Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan, as prepared by the City. Discussed. 5. Update regarding amendments to the City of Austin FY2025-26 Budget related to Commission on Aging recommendations. Update by Chair Bondi. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the Quality of Life Transition Working Group on actions taken or planned to transfer the trust-based relationship from the vendors to the Commission and age friendly staff. Update by Chair Bondi. 7. Update from the Federal Budget Impact Reduction Working Group on the group’s progress to determine the impacts of Federal budget cuts on older adults. Update by Commissioner Van de Putte. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Presentation from Cortez Consulting on Quality of Life …
APH Staff Response Resolution 20250605-084 Presented by Halana Kaleel, PH Community Engagement Specialist Resolution 20250605-084: Age-Friendly Austin Adopted on June 5th, 2025 by Austin City Council, this resolution directs the City to enhance resources and programming for older adults. Austin Public Health is leading the response and progress will be reported out at the October 9th, 2025 City Council meeting. Resolution Directives: • Assigning a point of contact in each City • Exploring reimbursement options for in- Department home care • Prioritizing new senior centers and • Securing additional funding for home • programming Improving transportation options for older adults • delivered meals Implementing key recommendations from the 2022 audit City Services for Older Adults • Developing fraud prevention initiatives • Exploring the feasibility of an older adult internship or volunteer program Resolution 20250605-084: Resolution 20250605-084: Age-Friendly Austin Key Progress and Initiatives City Staff has made progress on several fronts: • Improved Communication: The Austin Senior Services Hub was launched in November 2023 to centralize resources for older adults. Austin Public Health is also conducting "Listen and Learn" sessions to help city departments better engage with seniors. • Action Plan Update: The Age Friendly Action Plan (AFAP) is being amended to include clearer metrics and responsibilities, with a new 2026-2030 plan scheduled for completion in July 2026. • Community Partnerships: The City is partnering with organizations like Meals on Wheels, Family Eldercare, and the Austin Geriatric Center to provide home-delivered meals, financial literacy services, and culturally responsive in-home care. • Fraud Prevention: The Austin Police Department is planning a Seniors Fraud Awareness Month for March 2026 and is working with partners to distribute educational materials. Resolution 20250605-084: Age-Friendly Austin Senior Centers and Programming There is a focus on expanding both space and programs available to older adults: • New Senior Center: Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) has identified Northeast Austin as a priority for a new senior center. The Gus Garcia Recreation Center Senior Wing project has been proposed, with community engagement underway for a potential 2026 bond program. • Intergenerational Programs: In Fiscal Year 2025, APR hosted 153 multigenerational events and programs, including family yoga and activities at community gardens. • Current Funding: APR currently allocates over $2.8 million for senior services across six different budgets. Resolution 20250605-084: Age-Friendly Austin Critical Resource and Staffing Needs While progress has been made, several key initiatives require identifying funding to move forward …
Discussion and Action: Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan Amendment Purpose: To present, discuss, and request approval of the amended Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan. This amendment results from a comprehensive review and collaboration with City departments, AFA partners, and AFA workgroups, all aimed at strengthening the plan's effectiveness in serving Austin's older adults. Background: In 2016, the Austin City Council adopted the original Age-Friendly Action Plan. In 2022, an audit by the City Auditor identified several findings and recommendations, including suggestions for enhancing the plan. This amendment is designed to make the plan more robust and actionable, directly addressing the audit's recommendations by: Including quantifiable indicators to better measure progress toward goals. • • Clarifying roles and responsibilities for each strategy to ensure accountability and effective • implementation. Incorporating demographic data to ensure all efforts are equitable and serve diverse groups of older adults. Key Changes: The proposed changes include refining goals, improving strategies, and adding specific metrics across the eight domains to align with best practices and stakeholder feedback. Additionally, several strategies have been marked as complete or removed where efforts have been successfully implemented or are better addressed in other parts of the plan. Action Requested: The Commission on Aging is asked to discuss and vote to approve the Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan Amendment at their October 8th, 2025, meeting. This amended plan is intended to guide the City's efforts from 2025 until a new plan is developed in 2026. The Commission on Aging’s approval in their advisory capacity will ensure the plan remains a living document that is responsive to the community's needs and allows the City to effectively measure its progress in creating a more age-friendly Austin. See Appendix A for a draft recommendation to Council for Commission on Aging consideration. 1 of 26 Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan Amendment Last Updated: September 2025 History of Age Friendly Austin Action Plan In 2012 the Mayor's Task Force on Aging was formed by Mayor Lee Leffingwell. In their final report published in 2013 the task force recommended that Austin be designated as an Age Friendly Community under AARP. The task force recommended the formation of the Commission on Seniors (now the Commission on Aging) to serve as an advisory committee to make recommendations on programs and policies to City Council, the City Manager, to City Departments, and to be advocates for issues that impact older adults. In 2015 the Commission …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL TO ADOPT THE AGE-FRIENDLY AUSTIN ACTION PLAN AMENDMENT Draft for commission consideration WHEREAS, the Austin City Council adopted the original Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan in 2016, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for older adults in Austin; and WHEREAS, a 2022 audit by the City Auditor identified several findings and recommendations for the Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan, highlighting opportunities for enhancement; and WHEREAS, the Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan Amendment (the Amendment) has been developed through a comprehensive review and collaborative process involving City departments, Age-Friendly Austin partners, and Age-Friendly Austin workgroups; and WHEREAS, this Amendment directly addresses the City Auditor’s recommendations by: Including quantifiable indicators to better measure progress toward goals; • • Clarifying roles and responsibilities for each strategy to ensure accountability and • effective implementation; and Incorporating demographic data to ensure all efforts are equitable and serve diverse groups of older adults; and WHEREAS, key changes within the Amendment include refining goals, improving strategies, and adding specific metrics across the eight Age-Friendly domains to align with best practices and stakeholder feedback; and WHEREAS, several strategies have been marked as complete or removed where efforts have been successfully implemented or are better addressed in other parts of the plan; and WHEREAS, this Amendment is intended to guide the City's efforts from 2025 until a new Age- Friendly Austin Action Plan is developed in 2026, serving as a critical interim framework; and WHEREAS, approval of this Amendment will ensure the Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan remains a living document that is responsive to the community's evolving needs and allows the City to effectively measure its progress in creating a more age-friendly Austin; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY OF AUSTIN COMMISSION ON AGING: The Commission on Aging recommends that City Council adopt the Amended Age Friendly Action Plan and support its implementation.
