FAMILY SERVICE AGENCY DESIGNATED AREA AGENCY ON AGING   FOR SANTA BARBARA AND SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTIES 

Supporting aging well at home and in the community 

 CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST (October 1, 2026) — The California Department of Aging has designated Family Service Agency (FSA) as the regional Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for Planning and Service Area 17, which encompasses Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.  Effective immediately, FSA will assume full programmatic, fiscal, and administrative coordination for critical older adult and caregiver services under Title III of the Older Americans Act. FSA is working closely with state officials, local community partners, and existing service providers to ensure service stability.  

 "We are honored to step into this vital role and serve the aging community across our region," said Lisa Brabo, FSA CEO. "Our immediate priority is ensuring a seamless, uninterrupted continuation of essential programs—such as nutrition assistance, caregiver support, and Medicare counseling—while working with community partners to build an even stronger network of support for older adults and individuals with disabilities." 

For information about available services, contact FSA at 805-842-5148 or visit the website aging.fsacares.org. 

 “The Area Agency on Aging often serves as a starting point for finding the right support for an older adult,” said Megan Young, AAA Program Manager. “Older adults and their family members can speak with trained resource specialists who understand local aging and disability services such as transportation, housing options, and public benefits.” 

The Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program (HICAP) provides free and unbiased information and counseling about Medicare. 

 “Medicare decisions can be difficult because coverage, enrollment periods, prescription plans and out-of-pocket costs vary from person to person,” said Young. “Counselors provide objective information about Medicare benefits, coverage rules, appeals, prescription drug plans and Medicare Supplement insurance.” 

ABOUT FAMILY SERVICE AGENCY  

Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County (FSA) is a nonprofit social service agency that has served the people of Santa Barbara County since 1899. FSA works to help the community’s most vulnerable children, families, and seniors meet their basic needs while simultaneously addressing secondary mental and behavioral health needs. Through this holistic approach, FSA improves the strength and well-being of our community. Visit fsacares.org or call (805) 965-1001 for more information. 

ABOUT AREA AGENCY ON AGING 

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are trusted local organizations dedicated to helping older adults live with independence and dignity in their homes and communities. Established under the Older Americans Act in 1973, AAAs coordinate a wide range of services that support aging well and help family caregivers manage the challenges of caregiving. There are more than 600 AAAs across the United States, each tailored to meet the specific needs of the older adults and families in their local communities.