Sacramento County becomes the first community in California to use the “Blue Zones” model to create a dementia-friendly community. Also, why maternity wards are closing across the state. Finally, a ski resort opening forecast for the Tahoe area. 

Sacramento County’s Alzheimer's Initiative

California is home to the largest aging population. As we get older, the risk increases for debilitating health conditions– including for dementia and Alzheimer’s, which can rob a person’s cognition and quality of life. But there are countries with larger older populations than the U.S., and they offer some good insight when it comes to aging and wellness. Those that lead the pack– like Japan, Italy and Greece– are home to “blue zones” where people are both living longer and healthier. Sacramento County is taking notice, and has been selected as the first community in the state to adopt a “blue zone” model– with a specific focus on creating a dementia-friendly community. CapRadio Health Care Reporter Kate Wolffe got a better understanding of what this exactly means and joins us with her reporting. 

Why Maternity Wards are Closing Across CA

Over the past decade, dozens of hospitals across California have closed their maternity wards, according to new analysis by the non-profit newsroom CalMatters. The pace of these closures has accelerated in recent years, and it is leaving many communities with increased barriers to care, including long travel times for childbirth and prenatal appointments. And these findings align with roughly the same time period when pregnancy-related deaths in California reached a 10-year high. CalMatters health reporter Ana Ibarra explains the investigation which dives into the factors behind these closures. 

CalMatters is a content sharing partner with public radio newsrooms across the state.

Ski Resort Opening Forecast

This time last year the Sierra was caked in snow, ski resorts were starting to open, and it was just the beginning of what turned out to be an epic winter. Now, as we get closer to the end of 2023 and upcoming holidays, those who enjoy the snow are waiting for that one big storm to kick-off the season in Tahoe. Joining us to talk ski and snow business are Davis Bedient with Donner Ski Ranch and Paul Raymore with Diamond Peak. We’ll learn what’s new at their ski resorts this year and how you can save some money this season– if you plan your snow days right.