District 6 Senior Advisory Council

Ensuring the safety and well-being of our senior residents is a foundational element of a thriving, inclusive Oakland. Currently, many older adults face compounded risks due to deteriorating neighborhood infrastructure, limited mobility, and a heightened vulnerability to exploitation. To bridge this gap, we must prioritize proactive measures such as home safety audits, enhanced street lighting, and the streamlining of information-sharing between city agencies and senior service centers. By fostering a collaborative network that connects vulnerable seniors directly to local support systems, we can restore a sense of security and dignity to our aging community.

This guide provides essential contacts for seniors and caregivers in Oakland and Alameda County.

Emergency & Protection

Emergency Services: Call 911

Adult Protective Services (APS): (866) 225-5277 or (510) 577-3500

General Support & Navigation

Alameda County 2-1-1

Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211alamedacounty.org

Senior Information & Assistance: (800) 510-2020

Alameda County Area Agency on Aging: (510) 577-1900

Local Oakland Senior Centers

Downtown Oakland Senior Center: (510) 238-3284

East Oakland Senior Center: (510) 615-5731

North Oakland Senior Center: (510) 597-5085

https://www.nobigrigs580.org

Transportation Options for Seniors

Paratransit from City of Oakland

Must be 70 years or older.

Unable to access public transportation. 

Applications on line or call 510 238 3036 to request an application.

Costs is $3.00 for a coupon book worth $28 in taxi fare

East Bay Paratransit funded by Bart and AC Transit.

Must be unable to ride Bart or AC Transit alone. Not only mobility issues.

Contact 510 287-5000 to schedule an appointment.

1750 Broadway Cost is $4.00 per ride in Alameda County, $8.00 per ride to San Francisco

Available anytime Bart and AC Transit run.

Must make reservations 24 hours in advance.

Go Go Grandparent

Register with home address, phone number and credit card.

Family member is advised of your location. Pick up and drop off.

Call in to schedule Uber or Lyft as opposed to using your phone to schedule a pickup.

$8.00 of each ride deducted from each ride paid by City of Oakland.

Call 1 855 212 4646 to get started.

Alameda Alliance

Free rides to doctor's appointments for medical patients.

• Wilma Chan Highland Hospital
• San Leandro Hospital
• Alameda Hospital

Make reservations 3 days in advance.

Call 1-855-811-7171.

Alameda County Transportation Commission

FREE transportation to and from doctor's appointments in Alameda County with volunteer drivers. Call 925 222-2273.

Mobility Management with Alameda County

FREE!

Call 211 to access non emergency transportation if you have mobility problems.

Mission Statement

We empower older adults to confidently use technology by providing patient, respectful, and accessible instruction that builds practical skills, fosters independence, and strengthens social connections. 

Senior Technology Day — Lifelong Learning & Digital Inclusion

In the fall of 2026, Northeastern University Oakland, and Oakland High Schools present a hands-on intergenerational event that bridges the digital divide. Senior Technology Day pairs older adults with local high school and Northeastern University students for personalized, one‑on‑one help to build confidence using smartphones and basic AI tools.

What attendees will do

• Get help troubleshooting everyday phone tasks (taking/sending photos, downloading apps, video calling family, etc.).
• Learn practical, privacy-minded tips for using basic AI features and staying safe online.
• Practice skills through patient, respectful instruction tailored to each learner’s pace.

Student roles & benefits

• Oakland High School and Northeastern University students mentors the senior attendees, providing patient, hands‑on guidance to help them learn to use their cell phones.
• Participating students receive an official Certificate of Participation issued by the City of Oakland.

As we age, protecting our financial well-being and planning for the future become increasingly important. Oakland offers a variety of resources to help older adults and their families avoid scams, safeguard assets, prepare important legal documents and make informed decisions about estate planning and long-term care. This page brings together trusted local programs, workshops, legal services and educational resources to support seniors in maintaining independence, security and peace of mind.

Learn about and take advantage of all the discounts available to all seniors, those with low incomes and/or are disabled:

SPARE program (Special Assessment Refund and Exemption)

You may be exempt from certain assessments that have been added to your property tax bill. Check it out at the city website below, and apply if you qualify. https://www.oaklandca.gov/My-Household/Property-Tax/SPARE-Start-Page

In addition, Oakland seniors can significantly reduce utility costs through income-qualified programs, though age-based senior discounts are generally not offered directly. Instead, utilities use income guidelines (e.g., CalFresh, Medi-Cal, or total household income limits) to provide reduced rates.

AARP provides significant discounts on insurance, retail and restaurant purchases, travel, entertainment and more. https://www.aarp.org

Legal Assistance for Seniors, providing

· Free or low-cost legal advice

· Estate planning guidance

· Powers of attorney and advance directives

· Elder abuse and financial exploitation help

· Medicare counseling (through HICAP)

· Educational workshops on scams and fraud prevention

Legal Assistance for Seniors

333 Hegenberger Road,

Suite 850 Oakland, CA 94621

Main Office: (510) 832-3040

HICAP Appointments: (510) 839-0393

CA Statewide HICAP Hotline: (800) 434-0222

las@lashicap.org

Alameda County Area Agency on Aging

· Legal aid

· Fraud prevention programs

· Caregiver support

· Benefits counseling

· Housing assistance

· Senior Information and Assistance line

800-510-2020/510-577-3530

https://socialservices.alamedacountyca.gov/contact-us/index

The California Office of Attorney General has excellent guides specifically about:

· Phone scams

· Contractor fraud

· Financial exploitation

· Identity theft

· Caregiver abuse

https://oag.ca.gov/consumers/general/seniors

United Seniors of Oakland and Alameda

· Digital literacy

· Housing support

· Community events (isolation is one of the biggest risk factors for scams and exploitation, so organizations like this can help seniors stay connected

https://www.usoac.org

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau also has a page devoted to working with older adults with many resources for both seniors and caregivers.

https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/resources-for-older-adults/

Online/Zoom options

Senior Planet offers free online classes for older adults on”

· Estate planning basics

· Online safety

· Fraud prevention

· Technology skills https://seniorplanet.org/classes Hotline: 888-713-3495,

A 10 step checklist to ensure you’re prepared

1. Will or Living Trust

A will says who inherits assets and who handles your estate

A living trust can help avoid California probate, which can be expensive and slow. Many California homeowners benefit from a trust because of home values.

2. Durable Financial Power of Attorney

Allows a trusted person to do the following if you are unable to:

· Pay Bills

· Handle banking

· Manage taxes

· Deal with insurance

3. Advance Health Directive

Names someone to make medical decisions if needed and documents your wishes

4. HIPAA Authorization

Lets doctors speak with designated family or caregivers

5. Beneficiary Review

Have you designated beneficiaries on your accounts? Outdated beneficiaries are one of the most common estate problems. Make sure to check:

· Bank accounts

· Retirement accounts

· Investment accounts

· Life insurance

· Pensions

6. Property and Deed Protection

Keep copies of the following together in a safe place and share the location with your family/caregiver. Be especially cautious about reverse mortgage solicitations, “home equity” offers, contractors pushing for immediate signatures

· Deed/title

· Mortgage Records

· Insurance policies

7. Digital and Password Planning

Create a secure record of important accounts, passwords, recurring bills, phone/computer access

8. Scam Protection Steps

· Freeze credit if appropriate https://www.usa.gov/credit-freeze

· Use two-factor authentication

· Never wire money from unsolicited calls/texts

· Verify requests independently

· Have a trusted second reviewer for large financial decisions

9. Emergency Information Folder

Keep accessible:

· Medication list

· Doctors

· Insurance cards

· Legal documents

· Emergency contacts

10. Long Term Care Planning

Discuss with your family/loved ones/caregivers

· Home care preferences

· Assisted living

· Caregiving roles

· Medi-Cal planning questions

Physical and mental wellness resources for seniors

Physical activity is critical for everyone, but especially seniors as they age.

Lifespans are getting longer and good health ensures enjoyment of those years.

Being active has been shown to be a protective factor in diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and some types of cancer. Physical activity improves mental health, delay onset of dementia, can prevent osteoporosis and falls. And the social aspect of group exercise, walking or other activity provides added benefit.

The National Institute of Health recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of physical activity weekly, or about 30 minutes/day. Below are some resources available to Seniors in our area.

Medicare Advantage Plans

For those that elect to join a Medicare Advantage Plan, gym memberships or discounts are included. Kaiser’s plan is called ONE PASS, Blue Cross offers SilverSneakers. In addition to the gym membership/discount, these plans also offer online fitness classes and videos, social events, etc. Depending on your plan, the included gyms and particular resources will vary. For more information, check with your provider. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to get help with specific questions about billing, claims, medical records, expenses and more.

The Good Life

The Good Life is an organization that offers a host of free exercise and meditation classes via zoom. It’s simple to sign up and what could be easier than exercising in your own home?

https://thegoodlifepath.org/mind-body-spirit/

Fall Prevention Program

Offered through Spectrum Community Services and held at various locations (Palo Vista Gardens in our area), includes 1 hour classes on a quarterly basis to address factors that can lead to a fall. There is a small fee for the 12 week class ($46 - $64). For more information call (510)881-0300.

AARP

Senior Planet From AARP has free online fitness and wellness sessions on weekdays that you can participate in from home. The AARP Virtual Community Center also has live exercise and wellness classes. AARP’s Staying Fit section has a selection of on-demand exercise videos available to all, some led by well-known fitness instructor Denise Austin. And you’ll find other Pilates, interval training and yoga videos in the Videos on Demand area of AARP Members Only Access.

Oakland Parks and Recreation Rec Centers

Arroyo Viejo Recreation Center 7701 Krause Ave

East Oakland Sports Center 9161 Edes Ave

East Oakland Senior Center

(EOSC) 9255 Edes Ave - located in the Ira Jinkins park, offering a range of activities such as step exercise, line dancing and swimming. Membership is only $12/year - such a bargain!

https://www.oaklandca.gov/topics/east-oakland-senior-center

Ira Jinkins Recreation Center 9175 Edes Ave

Tassafaronga Recreation Center 975 85th Ave

Walking Groups

• Next Door - a great way to share news and information with neighbors. Instantly connect to find a handyman, sell a couch or start a walking club! https://nextdoor.com/

• Meet Up - a variety of group activities available from book clubs to hiking and everything in between. Many walks/hikes during the weekdays have heavy senior attendance https://www.meetup.com/

• Sierra Club - most chapters have a subset of Sierra Seniors with easy hikes https://www.sierraclub.org/sfbay/events

• United Seniors of Oakland and Alameda County https://www.usoac.org/walkable-neighborhoods

Library Resources

Speaking of exercise, your mind needs it too! Your local library is there for you, and it’s not just for books! Your library card unlocks a host of benefits and perks. Go to the Oakland Library website and click on the “See and Do” tab. Among other things you will find book clubs, a tool lending library, seed library and FREE tickets to local attractions such as the Chabot Space and Science Center, the Exploratorium, the Oakland Museum of California and many others. Best to check early in the month for best availability. You can choose 2 tickets monthly.

https://oaklandlibrary.org/

Pet Adoption

Studies show that pet companionship can reduce stress and loneliness, improve heart health and boost overall quality of life for seniors. With that in mind, the following are local resources available for pet adoption. 

East Bay SPCA: 8323 Baldwin St. Oakland 510-569-0702 

The East Bay SPCA offers a “Seniors for Seniors” program, waiving adoption fees for dogs and cats aged 7 and older at its shelters in Oakland for seniors ages 65 and older. They offer assistance in selecting a senior pet that fits your lifestyle and housing situation. 

https://eastbayspca.org/adopt

To qualify for Pet Care Financial Assistance Program: 

• Owner must fill out a Veterinary Assistance Program Questionnaire 

• Live in Alameda or Contra Costa County 

• Be approved by their Humane Advocacy staff for veterinary care 

• Meet certain income guidelines based on federal poverty levels Show proof of owning the pet for at least 30 days 

• Follow the EB SPCA & Human Advocacy rules and procedures 

Oakland Animal Services: 1101 29th Ave Oakland 510-535-5602 

Offers adoption programs for dogs and cats and options for other animals like birds, rabbits and guinea pigs. There is currently no program for seniors but there are frequently reduced adoption fees. 

https://www.oaklandanimalservices.org/adopt/how-to-adopt/

Muttville Senior Dog Rescue: 750 Florida St. San Francisco 415-272-4172 

Seniors for Seniors Program - If you are 62+ years of age, they waive their $250 adoption fee. They also provide a welcome kit that includes your dog’s harness and collar, a leash, dog bowls, a starter supply of food and medication, a doggy bed, and, if needed, home modifications such as a doggy gate and stairs. 

https://muttville.org/seniors_for_seniors#adoption

Good nutrition is the foundation of healthy aging, yet far too many older adults face barriers to accessing the food they need. Fixed incomes, rising living costs, limited mobility and social isolation can make it difficult for seniors to obtain nutritious, affordable meals. Ensuring reliable access to healthy food is essential not only for physical well-being but also for independence, dignity and quality of life. This section is dedicated to supporting senior nutrition and food security by connecting older adults with trusted resources and programs.

FOOD PANTRIES / GIVEAWAYS

There are many food pantries in our district that distribute food at various times and days of the week. Generally, there are no requirements other than to bring your own bag. Schedules are subject to change so check before going. https://www.foodnow.net/find-a-food-pantry/ 510-635-FOOD (3663)

For convenience we list some below:

Allen Temple

8501 International Blvd. Oakland, CA 510-544-8910 https://allen-temple.org

Food distribution open to all 1st & 3rd Tuesday 10:00am -12:00pm of every month.

Mercy Brown Bag Program for seniors 60+. Register for $10/year, provide proof of age and income + ID. 2nd and 4th Fridays 9 – 12.

Register by calling Krista at 510-534-8540x369

Buena Tierra Oakland (English/Spanish)

1343 81st Ave Oakland 510-730-4172

An Alameda County program supported by Alameda County Community Food Bank and the USDA. Distributes canned goods, dry beans, meats, pasta, etc. Free to the public on the 4th Monday of each month, 9 – 12.

Canaan Christian Church

5782 Foothill Blvd, Oakland 510-636-1881 https://ccc-mbc.org

Food distribution every Tuesday 11-12 and 3rd Saturday 12 – 2. Open to everyone.

East Oakland Senior Center

9255 Edes Ave Oakland, Ca. 510-615-5731 https://www.oaklandca.gov/Community/Senior-Disability-Services/Senior-Centers/East-Oakland-Senior-Center-EOSC

Food distribution to seniors with membership every Wednesday 8 – 9. There is a separate line for seniors. The cost to be a member is $12 per year which includes access to the early senior line and to the center and all of its programs.

Note: Following the 8 –9am senior food distribution, there is a distribution for the general public from 9 – 11. This pantry is open to everyone.

Congregate Meals

Congregate Meal programs provide nutritious meals served in a group setting. Most site locations serve meals Monday through Friday, however have different meal schedules. Contacting the program or site in advance to sign up is a must. Many sites require a reservation of at least 24-72 hours in advance.

Spectrum Community Services

Serves: Alameda, Castro Valley, Hayward, Oakland, San Leandro, Union City Click for the nearest site location Reservation Line: 510-881-0300 opt. 5 Website: www.spectrumcs.org/senior-services/senior-meals

J-Sei

Serves: Emeryville, Oakland, Berkeley Japanese Style Meals Reservation Line: 510-654-4000 x105 Website: https://j-sei.org/seniorservices/nutrition/

Home Delivered Meals

J-Sei

Cities: Emeryville, Berkeley, Oakland Phone: 510-654-4000 ext.105 Email: kathleen@j-sei.org Serves: Japanese style meals, age 60+

SOS Meals on Wheels

Cities: Oakland, Piedmont, Hayward, Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, Cherryland, Ashland, & San Leandro, Fremont, Newark, Union City Contact: 510-582-1263 ext. 118 (Oakland, San Leandro, Hayward, Castro Valley, or San Lorenzo) Serves: age 60+

Meals for Homebound and/or Serious Medical Conditions

Project Open Hand

1921 San Pablo Ave Oakland 510-622-0221. https://www.openhand.org/about-us/locations/project-open-hand-oakland

· Temporary 12 week nutrition intervention program (clients may be referred by their health plan Alameda Alliance for people recovering from surgery or who have serious medical conditions.

· Meal and grocery pick-up typically available between 10-2 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday

Cooking Classes

The Good Life Path

2220 Livingston St. Oakland 510-255-0232 https://thegoodlifepath.org/lets-get-cooking/

Free cooking classes via zoom every Thursday at 11. Those registered for the class have free access to the farmers market on Wednesday where fresh produce, staple items and ingredients for the cooking class are available. 1 – 2:30

More Information

Alameda County Senior Nutrition and Food Resource Guide: https://socialservices.alamedacountyca.gov/acssa-assets/PDF/AAS/AAA/senior-resource-guides/2024_Senior_Food_English_pub10-23.pdf

Call the Area Agency on Aging, Senior Information & Assistance 1-800-510-2020 or 510-577-3530

NEED FOOD TODAY? www.foodnow.net or call the helpline at 510-635-3663. Hours of operation M-F, 9am-4pm.

Roberta Avant, joined the Senior Advisory Council to represent District 6 and help address the growing needs within the senior community. She believes there is a significant opportunity to gather resources and share valuable information to assist seniors, especially when it comes to nutrition, meals, and groceries. Roberta is passionate about ensuring that no senior has to worry about sacrificing essential needs like food. As a senior herself, she understands the challenges that come with age and is committed to raising her voice and the voices of others so seniors are heard and their concerns are addressed. She sees the Senior Advisory Council as a vital platform to bring positive change and improve the lives of seniors in the community.

Concerned about the city's rise in crime, she was recently considering relocating after robberies in her neighborhood but realized staying and working to improve her community was the better choice. Now retired, Darcy is dedicated to making Oakland safer and more vibrant. She is especially passionate about supporting local businesses and ensuring that residents’ dollars stay within the city. As a homeowner, she is also concerned about crime’s impact on property values. Darcy believes the Senior Advisory Council can address key issues that will benefit everyone in the district, and she is excited to contribute to solutions that will improve life for all Oakland residents.

My name is Sandra aka Sandi Bethune. I am a resident of the Sequoyah Hills neighborhood. During these times of great stress we must consider the impact on our senior community. As a senior, I want to be a part of any effort that identifies and ensures our needs are not forgotten. Who best to know what those needs are? Seniors! So I fully embrace the creation of a Senior Advisory Council to support the unique challenges seniors face. My major concerns are safe and easy sidewalk access, emergency plans, and transportation.

Adriana Cardenas of Leona Heights, is a passionate member of the Senior Advisory Council, driven by a deep care for both seniors and children. Now enjoying her senior years, she has dedicated her free time to giving back to her community. Focused on advocating for safety, healthcare access, and community building, Adriana believes that a unified voice can create greater impact. She values the power of collaboration, knowing that coming together with others who share similar concerns can generate new ideas and foster meaningful change.

Tom Van Demark is a passionate advocate for community, safety, and self-respect. Inspired by Councilmember Kevin Jenkins and Linda, Tom joined the Senior Advisory Council to contribute to the high aspirations of the D6 Council team. Very active in his Maxwell Park, he often hosts gatherings to build stronger connections among neighbors and foster a sense of community. With a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors, He believes the Senior Advisory Council provides an important platform to address the vital issues of aging through the voices of older individuals. Focused on creating a sense of love and belonging, He remains dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors in the community.

Sarah Flewellen is a retired City of Oakland employee with a long-standing dedication to the city and its neighborhoods. She has always cared about keeping Oakland clean and being a strong voice for others to get things done. Passionate about neighborhood cleanliness, Sarah is committed to maintaining and improving the environment for all. She believes the Senior Advisory Council plays a crucial role in keeping other generations informed and helping seniors understand the importance of cleanliness. A walker at heart, Sarah continues to stay active, even using a cane, and refuses to give up on her mission to make a difference.

Randy Geford of Palo Vista Gardens became interested in senior issues through conversations with neighbors and a genuine curiosity about the challenges seniors face. He is deeply passionate about senior activities and keeping seniors engaged and busy. With a love for writing and a strong desire to help others, Randy takes the time to reach out and check on people in his community. He believes that every community should have a Senior Advisory Council, as senior issues are important enough to be prioritized and addressed.

Daniel Jacko is dedicated to supporting seniors in his community, serving as the caregiver for his 97-year-old mother and assisting four widows in his neighborhood. He joined the Senior Advisory Council because he believes it can be an essential resource for seniors, offering support in times of need. Jacko is passionate about improving the safety and well-being of seniors, especially in Oakland, where many feel unsafe. He is committed to providing information on senior activities, including exercise programs, gardening, senior centers, and paratransit services. In addition to his community involvement, He has a strong passion for gardening, health and fitness, and ministry, particularly prayer. He believes the Senior Advisory Council is a critical platform that can give seniors a voice, offering them support and resources in a way that feels accessible and meaningful. Jacko is excited to contribute to the ongoing efforts to better serve and protect the senior community.

Beverly Jarrett is originally from St. Louis, Mo., and has lived in Oakland since 1985, making the Havenscourt neighborhood of District 6 her home since 1998. A retired educator, Beverly is passionate about teaching and learning, always seeking ways to support her community. She joined the Senior Advisory Committee because she shares the vision of many to help fellow seniors in Oakland. Beverly is particularly focused on transportation issues and the importance of keeping senior centers open, ensuring seniors have access to the resources and support they need.

As a long-time resident and now a senior myself, I understand the challenges our elders face after a lifetime of hard work, sacrifice, and service. I’m committed to being part of the solution—advocating for the rights, dignity, and well-being of seniors. Through the Senior Advisory committee work, I aim to help provide vital resources and support around public safety, food insecurity, and social isolation. Seniors deserve to live their lives like they’re truly GOLDEN.

Karen Smulevitz of Pala Vista Gardens, is a dedicated advocate for seniors, always seeking ways to help and support them. With experience in starting and participating in several senior groups throughout Oakland and Alameda County, Karen has a strong commitment to improving the lives of older adults. She believes that when seniors unite and raise their voices together, they can make a real impact. The Senior Advisory Council is an important platform for her to contribute to this cause and ensure that seniors’ voices are heard.

Mrs. Barbara Taylor has spent over four decades uplifting the music industry, African American small businesses, and community organizations. Starting in 1985 at Ivy’s in Oakland’s Jack London Square, she became a champion for local artists and cultural events. In the 1990s, she coordinated African arts programs for the Mandela Institute and went on to support groups like the Bay Area Blues Society, Black Business Listing, Black Expo, and the Berkeley Juneteenth Festival, which she co-coordinated for 20 years.

Founder of Rhythms, a company promoting Black-owned businesses and cultural programs, Mrs. Taylor has also worked with CDA Consulting Group, 100 Black Women Events, and the Multi Ethnic Sports Hall of Fame. Her service has earned her numerous awards from 100 Black Women, Women of Excellence, the Oakland City Council, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee’s office.

A devoted community and faith leader, Mrs. Taylor has served with the Lend A Hand Foundation and Miracles of Faith Community Church. Married to Richard Taylor for 68 years, she is a proud grandmother of Yavair and Kris and honors the memory of her late sons, Ricky and Kenny.

Flora Torrez is passionate about helping seniors and improving the community. With a strong focus on safety, Flora is particularly concerned about the current safety challenges facing everyone in the community. Gardening and staying active are key passions for Flora and she’s committed to keeping busy while making a difference. As an active voice in her neighborhood, Flora is dedicated to advocating for fellow seniors and ensuring their concerns are heard.

Phyllis Williams from the Melrose neighborhood is driven by a strong desire to give back to the community, a passion that began in childhood when she participated in collecting donations for UNICEF on Halloween. Inspired by her father, who encouraged her to collect money for a good cause, Phyllis learned early on the importance of making a positive impact on others. This lesson in giving back has stayed with her throughout her life. Now, as a member of the Senior Advisory Council, she is committed to fostering community and promoting dignity for seniors. She believes the council plays a crucial role in creating spaces where older individuals can be heard and respected, ensuring they continue to contribute to the vibrancy of the community.