Enhancing the lifelong health and longevity of older adults
The Social Policy Institute is committed to investing in the lifelong health and longevity of older adults by fostering systems that support the evolving needs of a diverse population.
As the fastest growing segment of our population, older adults require services, systems, and communities that adapt to the changing needs of an aging society. This involves ensuring access to vital services that not only improve their physical health, but also their quality of life and sense of belonging within their community.
Leading initiatives to address the current and emerging challenges of healthy aging throughout the lifespan.
By 2035
the number of older adults
will surpass those under the age of 18
for the first time in history
As part of our goal to help prioritize the needs of older adults at a local and statewide level, SPI drove forward the initial concept and purpose of the Center for Excellence in Aging & Longevity (CEAL). CEAL focuses on five main areas: Longevity, Policy, Workforce Development, Research, and Age-Friendly Initiatives
Since its inception, CEAL has spearheaded a diverse portfolio of projects within these focus areas including:
Age Friendly Communities (AFC)
SPI and CEAL have supported the cities of Chula Vista, La Mesa, Imperial Beach, San Diego, and Solana Beach through the full AFC program cycle.
Learn more about the CEAL’s work with AFC programs here
For additional information or support for your municipality, contact Manager of Age-Friendly Communities, Michelle Matter | mmatter@sdsu.edu
San Diego Caregiver Connections
The caregiver shortage is a serious concern nationwide, and CEAL is committed to increasing both the capacity and well-being of caregivers. CEAL created San Diego Caregiver Connections to empower caregivers through free competency-based courses, peer support, and career pathways aimed at increasing job satisfaction and retention rates for caregivers.
CalGrows
As a CalGrows Innovation Fund Grant recipient, CEAL offers a variety of self-paced online courses. This program has trained nearly 1,400 participants through a variety of self-paced online training courses. Training will be offered until August 31, 2024.
Caring4Cal
An initiative by the California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI). As a Caring4Cal training partner, SDSU CEAL offered eight 15-hour training tracks designed to equip individuals to become compassionate and proficient caregivers.
Peer Support
Acknowledging the significant amount of attention and work that goes into caregiving, CEAL created the Peer Support program which helps create a network of peers with shared experiences to provide emotional support and resources to one another.
For more information on our Peer Support program, click here to learn more.
For additional information contact CEAL Peer Support Specialist
Fernando Reyes at | freyes@sdsu.edu
Spring Symposium
CEAL hosts an annual Spring Symposium focused on social innovations in aging featuring thought leaders, and aging resource fair, and networking opportunities for attendees to connect and collaborate
Click here for information on the 2025 Spring Symposium.
Healthy Longevity Webinars
CEAL strives to create opportunities for older adults to live fulfilled lives, centered on vitality, resilience, and overall well-being. Part of this vision includes encouraging capacity-building and connections among community partners and industry leaders.
The Healthy Longevity Webinar Series was launched in March 2024 to explore the latest research and practical strategies for promoting longevity. This series provides a platform for addressing current and emerging issues related to healthy aging.
Click here to view previous webinars and stay up to date on new webinar announcements.
