During the recent Senior Citizen Commission meeting on January 14, 2025, in Davis, California, a significant focus was placed on enhancing accessibility and affordable housing options for seniors in the community. The discussions highlighted the challenges seniors face in accessing public transit and affordable housing, particularly during extreme weather conditions.

Commissioner Gavin proposed the idea of having a representative available weekly at the senior center to provide in-person assistance, addressing concerns about transportation barriers. The commission expressed strong support for this initiative, emphasizing the importance of making services more accessible to seniors.

A key topic of discussion was the ongoing efforts by local agencies to tackle the issue of affordable housing. The commission noted that many seniors struggle to find suitable and affordable living arrangements. The proposed solution involves promoting "co-living" arrangements, where seniors can rent rooms in shared homes, fostering both affordability and social connections. This model aims to reduce isolation among seniors while providing them with stable housing options.

The co-living program, known as Key Connections, facilitates the matching of home seekers—who may include college students, professionals, and older adults—with home providers offering spare rooms. The program emphasizes thorough screening and compatibility assessments to ensure a harmonious living environment. It is designed to support seniors who are capable of independent living but may benefit from companionship and shared responsibilities.

The commission also discussed the importance of clear communication and agreements between home providers and seekers to ensure a successful co-living experience. This includes establishing expectations regarding household responsibilities and social interactions.

As the meeting concluded, the commission reaffirmed its commitment to improving the quality of life for seniors in Davis. The proposed initiatives, particularly the weekly in-person assistance and the promotion of co-living arrangements, are expected to significantly enhance accessibility and social connectivity for the senior community. The commission plans to follow up on these initiatives in future meetings, aiming to implement solutions that directly address the needs of local seniors.