California senior advocacy group under shadow of federal cuts

Debbie Toth, the president and CEO of the Choice in Aging program — which provides services that promote independence for older and disabled people — told the outlet that the plan would be “devastating” for the group’s efforts. These include an expansion of its focus on aging in place with a dedicated educational and resource facility.

“The elimination of ACL means we lose priority, expertise, uniformity, grants and so much more,” she told the outlet. “It’s also a clear statement that elders and people with disabilities living in community isn’t a priority, which is devastating and infuriating.”

Adding to that is the looming possibility of cuts to Medicaid programs, putting home- and community-based services (HCBS) at serious risk. Toth said that when cuts…