A portrait of older californians with disabilities who rely on public services to remain independent.

Low-income older adults with disabilities in California depend on a variety of public programs to help them remain in their own homes. The availability of those services has been in flux since 2009 because of cuts caused by the recession. This article reports on a qualitative study of 33 California seniors who depend on fragile arrangements of paid and unpaid assistance. Thematic analyses of in-depth interviews conducted with these older adults and their caregivers indicate that the disability needs of these individuals are often unstable, with both physical and mental health status sometimes changing day to day. Most have nowhere else to turn for help if their public services are cut. All share the common goal of staying at home and maintaining their independence. Public services serve as a crucial link in the support networks of these individuals.