A San Mateo County Health division has changed its name to better reflect the needs of people with disabilities, the county announced.

San Mateo County Health’s Aging and Adult Services is now called Aging and Disability Services.

“The updated name reflects a growing national movement to acknowledge the needs of persons with disabilities alongside older populations who at time may themselves need long-term services and supports,” said a statement from the county.

Both Los Angeles and San Francisco counties have made a similar move as well, San Mateo County said.

The programs that assist the county’s aging population also support those with disabilities, such as the need for caregivers and programs that promote independence, safety and well-being, the county said. Both populations are also under the umbrella of Adult Protective Services, In-Home Support Services and Public Guardian and Public Administrator programs that help people with conservatorship and/or estate management.

“As older residents outpace younger residents, the county’s need for comprehensive services that address both aging and disability related challenges and opportunities is more critical than ever.” San Mateo County Health

According to the county, 25 percent of its residents are over 60 and 10 percent of people over the age of 18 have a disability.

“As older residents outpace younger residents, the county’s need for comprehensive services that address both aging and disability related challenges and opportunities is more critical than ever,” said the county in a news release.

Lee Pullen, director of Aging and Disability Services, said the new name is a better reflection of the department’s goal.

“The new name ensures that everyone we serve — whether older adults, who may be struggling with limitations, or younger persons living with disabilities — feels recognized and supported,” he said.

Katy St. Clair got her start in journalism by working in the classifieds department at the East Bay Express during the height of alt weeklies, then sweet talked her way into becoming staff writer, submissions editor, and music editor. She has been a columnist in the East Bay Express, SF Weekly, and the San Francisco Examiner. Starting in 2015, she begrudgingly scaled the inverted pyramid at dailies such as the Vallejo Times-Herald, The Vacaville Reporter, and the Daily Republic. She has her own independent news site and blog that covers the delightfully dysfunctional town of Vallejo, California, where she also collaborates with the investigative team at Open Vallejo. A passionate advocate for people with developmental disabilities, she serves on both the Board of the Arc of Solano and the Arc of California. She lives in Vallejo.