SACRAMENTO – Legislation aimed at making it easier for seniors needing care to remain in their own homes has been passed by the State Assembly.

Assembly Bill 1022 was passed (72-1) with bipartisan support.

The measure would allow Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) to provide assisted living care to seniors while living in their own homes outside of retirement communities.

The bill’s author, Assembly Member Lori Saldaña (D- San Diego) said this approach provides more options for middle class seniors who may not want to enter a retirement community or a nursing home, or those who do not qualify for the In Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program available to modest income seniors.

“Perhaps a senior needs help with home maintanence or maybe needs more intensive medical services; she wouldn’t have to give up her home or independence.” said Saldaña.  “I think this is an option many of us would prefer.”

Six other states and the District of Columbia currently offer consumer-preferred, in-home care by utilizing CCRCs to provide a system of care.

The measure now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Assembly Member Saldaña is Chair of the Legislature’s informal Caregivers Caucus.