The report warns that over 100,000 residents will be over the age of 85 by 2040 – a population that requires substantial resources regardless of overall health.

SAN DIEGO — San Diego County’s senior population is expected to rise above one million by 2040, up from the current 730,000 residents aged 60 years or older. 

Local leaders have launched a comprehensive plan to address the challenges of this aging population. The San Diego Seniors Community Foundation released its first-ever “State of Seniors” report Tuesday, outlining problems and possible solutions to prepare the county’s health care and social service infrastructure for this significant demographic shift over the next 14 years and beyond.

Health care resources face severe strain without immediate action. The report warns that over 100,000 residents will be over the age of 85 by 2040— a population segment that requires substantial resources regardless of overall health status.

“If we don’t do something about it, we’re going to be talking in ten years and saying where the heck did all these older folks come from and why we didn’t we do a better plan?” Paul Downey, the Chief Advocacy Officer of San Diego Seniors Community Foundation, said.

The scale of the challenge exceeds the overall population increase. 

“The big number actually is over 100,000 who will be over the age of 85. So even if people stay healthy, that takes a lot of resources when you are 85-plus,” Downey told CBS 8.

Economic instability poses the largest threat to current seniors. The report documents a 16% increase in housing cost-burdened residents compared to 2024, as well as a 5% increase in unhoused San Diegans 55 and older during the same period.

The foundation is launching a “Longevity Fund” to address these challenges by providing more relevant services for residents 60 and older. A centerpiece of this initiative is a proposed “Longevity Club” in East County that will offer classes on fitness, finance, food and travel, with an emphasis on purpose and belonging.

“We need to rethink the paradigm of how we think about aging,” Downey said.

This initiative represents a fundamental shift in approach and foundation aims to engage residents through meaningful activities. 

“The idea is to get people to come and engage, use their minds, make friends,” Downey said.

The foundation will also invest in current senior centers to offer some of these activities. The ultimate goal extends beyond simply increasing lifespan. 

“Longevity is the goal — and it is to not only extend the years, but to really make sure that people are able to enjoy them,” Downey said.

The report also recommends better coordination between government agencies, nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help seniors access available services more effectively.

To take a look at the full report, click here.Â