Funded by the Amador-Tuolumne Community Action Agency and First 5 Tuolumne County 2013
Table of Contents
Project Overview ___________________________________________________________________ 4
Data Sources _______________________________________________________________________ 4
County Demographics _______________________________________________________________ 4
Race and Ethnicity_________________________________________________________________________4
Age Distribution __________________________________________________________________________5
Change in Population ______________________________________________________________________5
Births and Deaths _________________________________________________________________________6
Educational Attainment ____________________________________________________________________7
County Geography __________________________________________________________________ 7
Geography _______________________________________________________________________________7
Transportation Issues ______________________________________________________________________8
Economic Characteristics _____________________________________________________________ 9
Employment _____________________________________________________________________________9
Unemployment Rates ______________________________________________________________________9
Median Household Income _______________________________________________________________ 10
Self Sufficiency Standard for Tuolumne County _______________________________________________ 10
Poverty Indicators _______________________________________________________________________ 11
Poverty Level ____________________________________________________________________________________ 11
Food Insecurity __________________________________________________________________________________ 11
Enrollment in Cash Assistance Programs ______________________________________________________________ 12
Free and Reduced Price School Meals ________________________________________________________________ 12
Housing & Homelessness ____________________________________________________________ 13
Foreclosures ___________________________________________________________________________ 13
Housing Affordability ____________________________________________________________________ 14
Homelessness __________________________________________________________________________ 14
Community Safety _________________________________________________________________ 16
Crime _________________________________________________________________________________ 16
Misdemeanors _________________________________________________________________________ 16
Domestic Violence ______________________________________________________________________ 17
Child Abuse ____________________________________________________________________________ 17
2
Injuries and Hospitalizations ______________________________________________________________ 18
Health ___________________________________________________________________________ 18
Prenatal Care and Birthing ________________________________________________________________ 18
California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) Regional Data 2009 ___________________________________ 19
Asthma (CHIS) ___________________________________________________________________________________ 19
Diabetes (CHIS) __________________________________________________________________________________ 19
Healthy Weight, Body Mass Index - CHIS ______________________________________________________________ 19
Children’s Physical Fitness ________________________________________________________________ 21
Breastfeeding Rates _____________________________________________________________________ 21
Immunization Rates _____________________________________________________________________ 22
Health Insurance ________________________________________________________________________ 23
CHIS Insurance Survey _____________________________________________________________________________ 23
Medi-Cal Insurance _______________________________________________________________________________ 24
Healthy Families Insurance and AIM__________________________________________________________________ 24
County Medical Services Program (CMSP) _____________________________________________________________ 25
Health Rankings ________________________________________________________________________ 25
Seniors___________________________________________________________________________ 26
Local Needs Assessments and Scorecards _______________________________________________ 28
3
Tuolumne County
2013 Community Data Report
Project Overview
The 2013 Community Data Report presents data on the economic, demographic, and health status of Tuolumne
County residents. The goal of the report is to provide up to date information and links to current data that will
assist community service providers in planning for and providing responsive services to county residents.
Data Sources
Data are presented for a variety of indicators from federal, state and local sources. Where possible, state level
data are provided for comparison. Where county-level data are not available, regional data is provided. Data
sources are provided to assist in research and future updates. Some types of available data for small counties
(and small regions) are unreliable, due to the limited amount of data available and the large confidence
intervals. Only reliable data has been presented in this report.
County Demographics
Data: The most recent data available is from the 2010 Census. Over time, the U.S. Census will update
population estimates based on this baseline data, through its American Fact Finder site. Please be aware that
different census sites may provide slightly different numbers. The data source for the county demographics
section was the US Census, American Factfinder: 2010 Demographic Profile Data, http://factfinder2.census.gov , DP-1
Profile of General Population & Housing Characteristics 2010 or Census Quick Facts: http://quickfacts.census.gov
Race and Ethnicity
Ethnicity of Tuolumne Co.
Residents 2010 (Percentage)
1
1.5
10.7
2
0.1
White
0.4
Hispanic or Latino
2.4
81.9
Black or African American
American Indian and Alaska
Native
Asian
Other
All Other
Two or More Races
Tuolumne County 2010 Census Data
White
Hispanic or Latino
Black or African American
American Indian or Alaska Native
Asian
Pacific Islander
Other
Two or More Races
81.9%
10.7%
2.0%
1.5%
1.0%
0.1%
0.1%
2.4%
The major ethnic groups represented in Tuolumne County
are White (82%), and Hispanic/Latino (11%). Represented
at 2% are African American and two or more races.
Although the local Miwok American Indian tribal members
4
represent a low percent (1.5%), they are recognized as a significant cultural group in the county.
Ethnic trends have shown a steadily rising rate of Hispanic/Latino residents, which is expected to continue in the
next ten years. Only 7.1% of the population reports speaking a language other than English at home (compared
to 43% statewide), and only 1.7% report speaking English less than “very well,” (compared to 20% statewide.)
Age Distribution
The age distribution in Tuolumne County is weighted toward older residents. This is also true of surrounding
counties in the Gold Country region, due to their appeal as retirement locations. Over thirty seven percent
(37.5%) of the county residents are age 55 and older, as compared to 22% statewide. The percentage of
residents age 75 and older is 9.2%, as compared to 5.3% statewide. This age distribution has implications for
service demand and delivery in the areas of housing, health care, and senior services.
At the other end of the spectrum, the age
distribution under age 40 tells the story of
many Sierra foothill counties. Fewer
individuals age 20 and older stay in the area,
presumably due to the limited job
opportunities. Therefore, compared to
California as a whole, the percentage of
families with children is lower. This has
implications in terms of economy of scale for
supporting services for families.
Age Distribution in 2010
in Tuolumne County & California
80 and older
70 to 79 years
60 to 69 years
50 to 59 years
40 to 49 years
30 to 39 years
20 to 29 years
10 to 19 years
Birth to 9 years
California
Tuolumne
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
Percent Change in Population between 2000
and 2012
Change in Population
Tuolumne County grew in size by 1.6% between
the years of 2000 and 2012. This was a
significantly lower rate than California as a whole
(at 10%) as well as lower than its neighboring
foothill counties. While, statewide, the biggest
growth was in residents age 55 and older,
reflecting the aging of the baby boomer
population, Tuolumne County had a slightly
smaller increase in this age group than California
as a whole. The percentage of adults in
Tuolumne County age 20-54 decreased by 7.4%
in the last ten years, as did the percentage of
children, by 13%. This population decline is likely
tied to economic factors, with younger residents
8.5%
38.7%
Amador -0.9%
-11.6%
Calaveras
-1.9%
12.4%
1.9%
37.2%
6.5%
55-85+
1.6%
Tuolumne -7.4%
-13.0%
-20%
-10%
0%
20-54
26.9%
Birth-19
10.0%
6.3%
2.1%
California
All ages
36.9%
Mariposa -3.5%
-12.5%
10%
33.4%
20%
30%
40%
50%
5
leaving to find employment. It is difficult to predict future growth trends in small, foothill counties. The
projections generated by state and federal sources are useful for planning but, changes in economic situations,
infrastructure, or social conditions can have a larger impact on percentage changes in relatively small
populations.
Births and Deaths
Births
The number of live births in Tuolumne County was 430 in the year 2011. In the five year span between 2007
and 2011, the net change in the number of births was a negative 7% (44 fewer births), and annual fluctuations
ranging between a gain of 15% (62 births) and a decrease of 12% (57 births). Since the number of annual births
is so small, a relatively small change in birth rate can affect percentages dramatically. A slightly higher
percentage (13.3%) of Hispanic/Latino births than would be predicted by their presence in the total population
(10.7%) indicate a greater prevalence in the age of women of childbearing years, or a higher birth rate, or both.
This is consistent with the age distribution in the county, as the Hispanic population is steadily increasing
through in-migration as well as births. The opposite can be said for White births at 79% of the total births
(versus 82% of the total population). The births to women of other ethnicities are so low in number (27) that
no conclusions can be drawn.
Deaths
Most deaths, as expected, occur in the older population. The average number of annual deaths in the last five
years (2006-2010) has been 595, which is 29% higher than the birth rate during that time. Therefore the recent
population increases are due to individuals moving into the county.
This demographic characteristic is typical of the foothill region. However, it is very different from California as a
whole, where the birth rate in 2010 was over twice the death rate.
2010 rates
Birth rate per 1,000 population
Death rate per 1,000 population
Tuolumne
7.6
9.5
California
13.7
6.3
Ethnic percentage disparities between births, population, and deaths, indicate that the ethnic characteristics are
different among the older age group.
White
Births (2011)
79.1%
Population (2010) 81.9%
Deaths (2010)
93.3%
Hispanic
13.3%
10.7%
4.6%
American Indian
1.4%
1.5%
0.8%
Multiracial
4.4%
2.4%
0.8%
Other groups
1.8%
3.5%
0.5%
All of these vital statistics align with the age distribution for Tuolumne County.
Vital Statistics Query System, http://www.apps.cdph.ca.gov/vsq/Default.asp
6
Educational Attainment
Young Adults Age 18-24 who are High
School Graduates
Tuolumne
82%
80%
California HS Graduate
75%
All
79%
Males
85%
85%
Females
The rates of students enrolling in college after high school
(at age 18-24 years) are one-third lower in Tuolumne
County (and surrounding foothill counties) than
statewide. This may be due to the fact that, while
Tuolumne County has a community college, the nearest
public 4 year college is in Stanislaus County. Depending
on where residents live in Tuolumne County, the distance
represents significant travel time, anywhere from 1- 3
hours. Family culture as well as economics may be
contributing factors along with the geographic barriers.
Tuolumne County has a slightly lower high school
graduation rate than California as a whole,
entirely due to lower rates of male students
earning a diploma. The rates of female student
completion are in line with the state as a whole.
The dropout rates are slightly lower than those
statewide, and in academic year 10-11, the rates
of UC/CSU course completion were higher than
statewide, indicating that there may be a change
in the trend. (http://data1.cde.ca.gov/dataquest/).
Population Age 18-24 Enrolled in
College or Graduate School
Tuolumne college enrollment
CA college enrollment
48%
43%
30%
All
39%
35%
26%
Males
Females
The percent of the population age twenty-five or older with a bachelor’s degree or higher in Tuolumne County is
11.2% compared to 30.1% statewide (2006-2010 census data).
County Geography
Geography
Tuolumne County is located in the Sierra foothills east of the San Francisco north bay area (approximately 136
miles east of San Francisco and 110 miles southeast of Sacramento). It is bordered by Calaveras and Alpine
counties to the north, Mono and Madera counties to the east, Mariposa County to the south, and Stanislaus,
Mariposa and Merced to the south/southwest. The northern half of Yosemite National Park is located in the
eastern part of the county. It has a land mass of 2,274 square miles and 24 persons per square mile (as
compared to 239/sq. mile statewide). This reflects areas of federal and state lands that are not populated,
American Indian reservation land, agricultural land, and housing developments that are widely dispersed. The
geography ranges from valley agricultural areas in the south at 300 feet elevation and west to high elevation
mountains (over 13,000 feet) in the east.
7
There is one incorporated city in the county, Sonora (population 4,903), which also serves as the county seat.
There are a number of unincorporated towns and areas of residence. Areas with population numbers over
2,000 (as of the 2010 census) are Columbia (2,297), East Sonora (2,266), Jamestown (3,433), Mono Vista
(3,127), Phoenix Lake (4,269), Pine Mountain Lake (2,796), Souslbyville (2,215) and Twain Harte (2,226). There
are a number of smaller areas of residence with populations under 2,000, many of them with populations under
500.
Data Source: ProximityOne: Zip Code Demographics by city-place and outside city-places
http://proximityone.com/zip-place.htm
Transportation Issues
Tuolumne County is served by three state highways, State Route (SR) 108 (a major southwest - northeast route),
SR 49 (the major north-south route), and SR 120, which co-routes with the other two, in the southern part of the
county. All are well used by residents and tourists. The highways serve the needs of the large number of
residents who commute to work, both inside and outside of the county, the recreational travelers (coming to
visit Yosemite, Columbia State Park, the Stanislaus National Forest, and other places of interest), and the
significant number of residents who have second homes in the area. The three state highways in Tuolumne
County serve as the backbone of its transportation network. For some communities, the highway serves as the
main street running through the town or residential area.
Tuolumne County Transit, which is operated by the County of Tuolumne, has 4 fixed route bus routes on
weekdays, radiating from Sonora to serve most areas of the county, on a limited schedule. There are plans to
expand to six routes. The system also operates three demand response services: (1) A Dial-A-Ride service for
seniors and persons with disabilities; (2) a weekly shuttle to residents of the Groveland area (located on the
border of Yosemite National Park), and a general public demand response service in the Sonora area on
Saturday. The transit system links at Columbia College with neighboring Calaveras Transit. Fares are low cost.
While Tuolumne Transit provides a critical service to residents, the major barriers to utilization are the limited
schedules and routes, which may be located miles from housing. This is true of all transit systems serving small,
rural counties with geographically isolated housing developments.
The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System serves the Tuolumne Meadows portion of Yosemite
National Park
There are two small general aviation airports: Columbia Airport and Pine Mountain Lake Airport.
Data source: Tuolumne County Transit website, http://www.tuolumnecountytransit.com, Transit Development Plan Update
for Tuolumne County Transit, prepared for Tuolumne County Transportation Council, Majic Consulting Group, Feb 2011,
http://www.tuolumnecountytransit.com/pdfs/TCT%20TDP%20Final.pdf#Transportation Development Plan
8
Economic Characteristics
Employment
Key employers in Tuolumne County are government (federal, state and local, accounting for 32% of average
monthly employment), Sonora Regional Medical Center, Black Oak Casino, and retail stores such as WalMart,
Kohls, and Lowes. State government employment includes one minimum security correctional facility, Sierra
Conservation Center. There are many small businesses that collectively employ a significant number of county
residents. Many of the employers are seasonal (recreation based or forestry). The construction trade has
traditionally been a significant employment option, and there seems to be a trend toward recovery after the
recent economic slow down. Most residents that work do so in the county; only 8% commute to workplaces in
neighboring Stanislaus or Calaveras counties.
A 2012 Regional Labor Market Profile for seven Mother Lode Counties (Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, Inyo,
Mariposa, Mono and Tuolumne) highlights employment forecasts for the region through 2014, as follows:



Recreation and tourism show potential for growth in the near future, with the largest growth, through
2014, projected for hotels and full-service restaurants.
Projected Baby Boomer retirements will open up government jobs, primarily in local government and
education, but also in state and federal government positions.
Professional, scientific and technical services are consistently successful, and are projected to increase
primarily in two areas - accounting and tax related firms, and computer systems design and related
firms.
Data Source: CA Employment Development Dept. Labor Market Information, http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/,
Centers of Excellence, California Community College’s Economic and Workforce Development program – Environmental
Scans, Regional Labor Market Profile , Mother Lode Counties, http://www.coeccc.net/
Unemployment Rates
Unemployment rates are high, at 10.7% for the county in March 2013 (as compared to the statewide rate of
9.4% ). The highest rates were in Chinese Camp (21%), Soulsbyville (21%), Jamestown (14%), Columbia (14%)
and Tuolumne City (12%). March rates are lower than January 2013 (12%), most likely due to expected
seasonal fluctuations in employment.
Tuolumne County has been impacted by the
Annual Unemployment Rate
economic downturn in the last five years.
Tuolumne County 2004 - 2013
Unemployment remains high, and the
Annual Unemployment Rate
downward trend since the high year of 2010
is hopeful. This may be linked to the
14% 13%
12%
11.6% 11%
opening of a few large retail employers
8%
7%
7%
6%
6%
(Lowes and Kohls) during that period. In the
years between 2008 and 2012, while the
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
labor force remained the same, the number
of employed residents decreased by 4%.
9
Data Source: State of CA Employment Development
Dept. Labor Market Information Division June 2012,
Industry Employment and Unemployment Rates for
Counties
http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/Content.asp
?pageid=1006
Median Household Income, 2010
$70,000
$60,000
$49,516
$40,000
The median household income in Tuolumne
County is $44,751, which is below the statewide
median income of $57,664. It is also lower than
neighboring foothill counties. (2010 data) Data
$30,000
$50,745
$44,751
$50,000
Median Household Income
Source: Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates
http://www.census.gov/did/www/saipe/data/stateco
unty/index.html
$57,664
$42,222
$20,000
$10,000
$California
Tuolumne County AmadorCalaveras
County Mariposa
County County
Self Sufficiency Standard for Tuolumne County
The Self Sufficiency Standard, developed by Dr. Diana M. Pearce of the School of Social Work at the University of
Washington, considers monthly budgets based on housing/utilities, child care, food, transportation, health care,
taxes and miscellaneous items such as clothing and telephone. Not included in the budgets are items such as
entertainment, insurance or savings. The Self Sufficiency Standard for Tuolumne County in 2011 is as follows:
Type of Earner
Single Adult, working full time
Single parent, working full time
Two parent family, one adult
working full time outside the home
Two parent family, both parents
working full time outside the home
Earnings needed to meet the
Self Sufficiency Standard
$13.63 per hour
$28,353/year
$28.30 per hour
$58,873/year
$24.72 per hour
$51,423/year
$16.91 per hour each
$70,361/year
Difference from minimum wage
employment earnings ($8/hour)
$5.63/hr
$20.30/hr
$16.72/hr
$8.91/hr each
The definition of median household income is that it is the income level that falls in the middle of the range of
incomes. That is, an equal amount of households earn more, and an equal number of households earn less than
that amount. All of the two parent and single parent families that work full time outside the home in
Tuolumne County would be having to make more income than the median income to meet the Self Sufficiency
Standard and this, of course, is not the case. At least 50% of families with children earn significantly below the
median household income, as evidenced by their eligibility for free and reduced school meals. Many families are
struggling to support themselves with multiple minimum wage or low wage jobs, or are having their hours cut
back due to the economic situation.
Data Source: California Budget Project, Making Ends Meet, June 2010
http://www.cbp.org/pdfs/2010/100624_Making_Ends_Meet.pdf
10
Poverty Indicators
Poverty Level
More than fifteen percent of the population in Tuolumne County live below the poverty level, with over a
quarter of these (an estimated 2,001) under age 18. The poverty levels (inclusive of all ages) are similar in
Tuolumne County to state rates and slightly higher than surrounding counties. The levels for Tuolumne children
are also close to state rates, reflecting that poverty impacts more families with children. Five year estimates
show that 33% of female householders in Tuolumne County with children up to 18 years live in poverty.
Percent of Persons Living in Poverty, 2010
30.0%
25.0%
22.0%
22.3%
21.5%
20.0%
15.8%
17.0%
15.2%
15.0%
18.3%
14.8%
12.8%
All Ages
11.1%
Under 18
10.0%
5.0%
0.0%
California
Tuolumne County
Amador County Calaveras County Mariposa County
Data is from the US Census Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates for 2010 and the US Census 2006-2010 American
Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. http://www.census.gov/did/www/saipe/data/statecounty/index.html
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/index.xhtml (Households and Families 2010 Summary File 1)
Food Insecurity
The 2009 California Health Interview Survey contacted a
sample of regional residents from Alpine, Amador,
Calaveras, Inyo, Mariposa, Mono, and Tuolumne. These
residents, whose income was less than 200% of the Poverty
Level, were asked if they were able to afford enough food.
31.9 %reported that they were not able to afford enough
food (with a wide confidence interval between 16.9% and
46.9%). This is a 6.4% increase since the year 2001. The
region ranks in the top 16% of counties for the fewest food
insecure households, reflecting a statewide trend toward
food insecurity in these difficult economic times.
Percent of Respondents who
reported that they were not able
to afford enough food, CHIS 2009
50%
40%
40.4%
31.9%
30%
20%
10%
0%
7 regional counties
California
The CHIS data for 2009 shows the beginning of a trend that is getting more pronounced. Local food banks and
pantries have all reported an increased demand for food in the last 3 years. One reason for the increasing
11
demand is that unemployment benefits are running out for many families, and they are struggling to make ends
meet. But the working poor and seniors also find it hard to make it to the end of the month without food
assistance. For many, this is their first experience with asking for help.
The Amador-Tuolumne Community Action Agency (ATCAA) Food Bank solicits, transports, and distributes
donated foods to individuals, families, and community based emergency food pantries in Amador, Tuolumne,
and Mariposa Counties. ATCAA provided emergency food services to 2,114 households in 2012. Fresh produce
was given to 310 seniors and disabled adults, and 836 households received fresh produce twice a month. “Kid
friendly” food was provided to 2, 127 children. Holiday food baskets were distributed to almost two thousand
families. The Food Bank relies on the efforts of over one thousand local volunteers who donated almost 3,000
hours on a regular basis. All Food Bank recipients are given the opportunity to give back, by volunteering their
services, and many have received training and job skills that have helped them to obtain employment.
Data Sources: The Amador-Tuolumne Community Action Agency 2012 Annual Report, the ATCAA website Food Bank page
http://atcaa.org/atcaa-programs/food-bank/, the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) http://www.chis.ucla.edu/
Enrollment in Cash Assistance Programs
The most recent available data on enrollment in
cash assistance programs, from June 2012,
indicates that 638 families were enrolled in the
CalWorks programs, and 196 in the Welfare to
Work program. Enrollment in CalWorks has
risen by 14% in the last 5 years, while enrollment
in Welfare to Work has decreased by 9%.
Percent of Persons Receiving Food Stamps,
2002 and 2012
12.0%
10.7%
9.3%
10.0%
7.9%
8.0%
6.0%
5.3%
2002
In June of 2012, 5,131 households received food
3.4%
2012
4.0%
2.3%
stamp assistance (compared to 1,293 households
2.0%
in 2007 and 2,045 in 2002). The rate of utilization
0.0%
of Food Stamps has risen significantly in the last
Statewide
Amador
Region
ten years, in Tuolumne County and surrounding
counties (Amador, Calaveras, and Mariposa), as well as statewide. Although there were fewer Tuolumne
residents utilizing the food stamp program in 2002, the rates now come much closer to the statewide
participation rates.
Data Source: ABCD 350 - Annual Recipient Report on CalWORKs, Foster Care, Social Services, Nonassistance Food Stamps,
CalWORKs Welfare to Work, Refugee Cash Assistance, and the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants Ethnic Origin and
Primary Language http://www.cdss.ca.gov/research/PG369.htm, Local data for June 2012 provided by The Resource
Connection.
Free and Reduced Price School Meals
For a child to qualify for free or reduced price meals, the family income must fall below 130% of the federal
poverty guidelines ($29,055 for a family of four in 2011) to qualify for free meals, or below 185% of the federal
poverty guidelines ($41,348 for a family of four in 2011) to qualify for reduced-cost meals.
12
In Tuolumne County, 50% of school
age children qualify for free and
reduced price meals. Of these, 75%
(or 37.7% of the children attending)
utilize school lunches. Tuolumne has
utilization rates for school lunches
slightly lower than the state, and
similar to surrounding counties.
Free and Reduced Price School Lunches:
Eligibility and Utilization 2011-12
Students Eating FRP Lunches at Schools
California (57%)
Tuolumne (50%)
Amador (41%)
Calaveras (45%)
Mariposa (52%)
Eligible, not utilizing
46.2%
10.4%
37.7%
30.6%
37.9%
35.1%
12.3%
Only a third of the eligible students
utilize the school breakfast program,
which is a lower utilization rate than
the state. Neighboring foothill
counties are all different in this
regard.
10.5%
7.2%
16.4%
Data sources:
California Dept. of Education Food Programs
http://www.cde.ca.gov/ds/sh/sn/#annual
Utilization Rate of Free and Reduced Price
Meals by Eligible Students 2011-12
Students Eating FRP Breakfasts at Schools
Free/Reduced Meals Program & CalWORKS
Data Files
http://www.cde.ca.gov/ds/sh/cw/filesafdc.asp
(updated file Aug 26,11)
kidsdata.org
http://www.kidsdata.org/data/topic/table/free
_school_meals-enrollment.aspx
California (57%)
Tuolumne (50%)
21.5%
32.7%
23.9%
Amador (41%) 5.4%
Mariposa (52%)
35.2%
17.3%
Calaveras (45%)
Eligible, not utilizing
21.2%
35.7%
18.8%
32.7%
Housing & Homelessness
Foreclosures
Available data show that the rate of foreclosures slowed in 2013, compared to 2012, estimated at a 37%
decrease, although the rate of decrease is not as high for our region as it is for the state as a whole. As of April
2013 the rate of foreclosure in Tuolumne County was one in every 420 housing units county-wide, which is
considered a medium-high rate. The highest foreclosure rates were in Soulsbyville, Groveland, Strawberry,
Twain Harte, and Sonora. These rates can vary dramatically from month to month, and should only be
considered as a snapshot in time.
Data sources: Realty Trac http://www.realtytrac.com/trendcenter/trend.html
13
Housing Affordability
The same factors contributing to the high foreclosure rates are also making property more affordable in
Tuolumne County. The median list price for a house in the county is $170,000 (April 2013), reflecting a range of
prices from $131,500 in Mi Wuk Village to $198,700 in Groveland. These prices reflect a slight increase from last
year at this time, but a 35% decrease from 2008 prices.
The U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development defines affordable housing as costing not more than
30% of a household’s annual income (with an adjustment for utilities averaging at $75-$100/month). In 2013,
the fair market rent for a 2 bedroom unit in Tuolumne County is $1,007, but this varies with location. For this
rent to be “affordable”, a family would have to make over $40,000 annually. With median income at $44,751,
many families are able to afford to rent or to consider lower mortgage opportunities. However, it has become
much more difficult for families to be approved for a loan to purchase a house. Families on the lower end of
the income spectrum find affordable housing still out of reach.
Data sources: Zillow, http://www.zillow.com/local-info/CA-home-value/r_9/ Kidsdata.com Housing Affordability,
http://www.kidsdata.org/data/topic/ (source U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Fair Market Rent Oct
2011. http://www.huduser.org/datasets/fmr.html
Homelessness
Regional point-in-time homeless surveys have been done in Amador, Calaveras and Tuolumne counties on a
regular basis since 2007 with the homeless population both in and out of shelters. The surveys are conducted
in January, when temperatures in the foothills can be frigid and dangerous for those sleeping outdoors. The
survey for 2013 counted 286 homeless adults and 72 children under age 18 (3 of which were unaccompanied
youth) in Tuolumne County. While most of the homeless were single (including one pregnant woman), there
were 30 families located who reported children living with them. This represents fewer families with dependent
children than in 2011, a good trend.
Family Characteristics of Tuolumne
Homeless, 2013
Ages and Number of Homeless
Tuolumne County 2013
1%
Adults only, no
children (190)
14%
Age 5 or under 31
Adults and
Children
together (30)
Age 6-17 41
Age 18-24 34
Age 25-59
221
85%
Youth alone (3)
Age 60 or older 31
14
Most of the homeless were ages 25-59. There were more males than
females, especially in the older age groups.
Gender of Tulumne
Homeless, 2013
Male
Where the Tuolumne County Homeless Slept in
January 2013
Camping or Outdoors
Female
38%
62%
108
The homeless individuals that were
surveyed were primarily living
outdoors. The other major places
Vehicle
24
they reported were couch surfing in
Shelter (emergency, transitional, DV)
23
the homes of friends and relatives
Motel paid by agency
(defined as a temporary stay), or
5
living in their vehicles, or in shelters.
Other
5
Most individuals with children (and
the pregnant woman) were staying in
an indoor location, primarily shelters and couch surfing, with only 2 family groups outdoors (one of them an
unaccompanied youth).
Couch surfing
40
The number of chronic homeless was estimated at 114, slightly higher than the number reported in 2011.
Chronic homelessness is defined as being homeless for one year or more, or being homeless more than 4 times
in the last 3 years.
Respondents were asked what the
obstacles were to obtaining
Top 9 reasons cited as obstacles to obtaining
housing. They were given 14
housing, Tuolumne County 2013
choices to choose from, which
Unemployed
included a wide range of social,
Bad credit history
51
economic and health factors. The
Criminal record
50
most frequent reasons cited were
Personal illness or disability
43
economic, specifically
Benefit payments not enough to pay rent
39
unemployment, or the fact that
Working, don't earn enough to pay rent
36
wages and/or benefits were not
Family breakup
35
Eviction history
27
adequate to afford the rent. Many
Waiting
for
govt.
benefits
26
also had a criminal record and/or a
bad credit history. Personal illness
or disability was also cited frequently. Other issues that may have influenced homelessness were tracked.
131
Of all the respondents,


14% had been in foster care
10% had served in the military
15




28% had been victims of domestic violence
23% had been diagnosed with serious mental health issues, PTSD or traumatic brain injury
34% had been diagnosed with alcohol/substance abuse issues
17% had been diagnosed with another physical condition
When asked what services they needed, the most common answers had to do with housing assistance,
transportation, employment, and food/food stamps, followed by dental care and medical care/medications.
Data Source: 2013 Homeless Point In Time Survey, Central Sierra Consortium of Care. Contact Amador-Tuolumne
Community Action Agency or Sierra Hope.
Rate of Crime
per 1,000 population, 2010
Community Safety
Crime
Tuolumne County has a lower crime rate
than the state as a whole. In general,
local crime rates are 24% lower than state
rates. The most common crimes are
burglary and theft. While certain types of
crime are seen less commonly in
Tuolumne County, the rates of burglary
and forcible rape are slightly higher than
the state as a whole. These same crime
characteristics are seen in neighboring
foothill counties.
Homicide
0.5
0.2
Arson
2.1
1.6
15.6
3.8
Robbery
2.2
4.2
Forcible Rape
Motor Vehicle Theft
54.7
41.9
Theft Over $400
61.4
72.8
Burglary
106.4
89.4
Theft $400 and under
0
Statewide
Total
DUI
5.5
Marijuana, Other
Drugs, Drunk
6.7
Assault & Battery
2.5
All Other
36.5
8.3
9.6
50
100
150
Misdemeanors
Tuolumne
25.9
Tuolumne
25.7
13.7
Aggravated assault
Rate of Midemeanor Arrests per 1,000
population, 2008-2010
California
40.9
15.5
Misdemeanor arrests are made in Tuolumne County at
higher rates (41% higher) than statewide. The 3 most
common areas of arrest in Tuolumne County are for
DUI, for alcohol and drug related issues, and for assault
and battery. The rates of DUI arrest are 52% higher in
Tuolumne County than statewide, and the rates of
Assault and Battery are 49% higher.
3.8
11.2
14.9
16
Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence calls are made at a higher rate (11%) in Tuolumne County than in the state as a whole, and
are less likely to involve weapons. When weapons are used, they are generally personal weapons and other
dangerous weapons.
For Domestic Violence Calls Involving a
Weapon, Percent/Type of Weapon
Rate of Domestic Violence Calls
per 1,000 population, 2010
79%
6
15%
5%
1%
California
5
0.56
4
1.8
3
4.4
2
55%
Weapon
42%
Tuolumne
No weapon
3%
0%
2.7
1
0%
0
Tuolumne
50%
100%
California
Data Source: California Dept. of Justice, Office of the
Attorney General, Crime Data, Criminal Justice Profiles,
2010 http://oag.ca.gov/crime
Firearm
Knife /cutting inst
Other dangerous weapon
Personal weapon
Child Abuse
In general, the foothill counties have higher numbers of reported and substantiated child neglect and abuse.
This may be due to the fact that the reporting rates are higher, due to smaller communities and well-informed
teachers and social service providers. The overall trend for Tuolumne in the last 15 years has been a rise and
fall and rise again. While this does not mirror the gradual decline of California as a whole, the rates have stayed
relatively stable since 2009. Regionally,
Incidence of Substantiated Child Abuse
rates are similar. The annual
per 1,000 children, over time.
fluctuations seen in the region and in
35
Tuolumne, as compared to the state,
30
reflect a smaller data set, which show
relatively small changes more
25
dramatically than the much bigger
20
statewide data set.
15
10
5
0
1998
1999
2000
2001
California
2002
2003
2004
2005
Tuolumne
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Data Source: Child Welfare Dynamic Report
System, Center for Social Services Research
UC Berkeley,
http://cssr.berkeley.edu/ucb_childwelfare/d
efault.aspx
Regional Average
17
Injuries and Hospitalizations
The most non-fatal injuries requiring
hospitalization in Tuolumne are from falls,
unintentional poisoning, suicide, and motor
vehicle accidents. The rates of non-fatal
hospitalization are higher in Tuolumne and
neighboring foothill counties than the state
as a whole.
Top 4 causes of non-fatal hospitalization,
2010,
all ages, rates per 10,000 incidents
California
Tuolulmne
68
Total
108
4
6
Suicide
Falls, motor vehicle/transportation accidents
30
Falls (unintentional)
and accidental poisoning are also the most
frequent reasons that children up to age 18
Motor Vehicle Occupant… 44
are hospitalized for injuries. The number of
4
Poisoning (unintentional)
10
these hospitalizations are under 20/year for
children and are therefore considered
unreliable for comparison purposes. However, the total rates are similar to state rates .
54
The higher rates of falls may have to do with the larger percentage of seniors, and also the nature of rural
environments and outdoor recreation. The high rate of motor vehicle injuries may reflect the nature of the
rural roads, which are narrow, often 2 lane, and unforgiving, especially in treacherous winter conditions. It may
also reflect the high DUI rates. Unintentional poisoning can include overdose of alcohol and recreational and
prescription drugs. Suicide rates are high in the foothill counties, the reasons for this are unclear, and the focus
of some targeted suicide prevention effort in the county.
The 4 major causes of death due to injuries in Tuolumne County in 2010 were accidental poisoning, motor
vehicle accidents, suicide and falls. Because the numbers for all of these are under 20, the rates are considered
unreliable for comparison purposes. With this caution, it can be noted that the death rates due to accidental
poisoning, suicide and motor vehicle deaths are notably higher than state rates. Overall, the death rate due to
all injuries is over twice as high in Tuolumne County (and neighboring foothill counties) as it is statewide. This is
likely similar to the injury data, with factors such as age, geography and alcohol/substance abuse as factors.
Data Source: EpiCenter California Injury Data Online, CA Dept. of Public Health, http://epicenter.cdph.ca.gov/
Health
Prenatal Care and Birthing
In 2011, 82% of pregnant women received care in the first trimester. This is equal to the state rate. Five
percent of the births were to low birth weight infants, a lower percentage than statewide (7%). The numbers
of low birth weight infants are too low to reliably show any trends associated with ethnicity, care or the
mother’s age. Two infants in the county died before age one in 2010.
Data source: California Dept. of Public Health Vital Statistics Query System, http://www.apps.cdph.ca.gov/vsq/Default.asp
18
California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) Regional Data 2009
Much of the health data in this section is from the 2009 California Health Interview Survey. This telephone
survey combines responses from interviews done in Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, Inyo, Mariposa, Mono, and
Tuolumne. It is important to note that, even with this data pooling, the amount of available data is low, and
there are some areas where disaggregated data is not reliable (such as
Percent of respondents
looking at data for children only, or teens only). Only reliable data has
reporting having asthma,
been used in this report. Also, it is important to view the confidence
2009 CHIS
interval markings on the charts. These show, for the small county
25.0%
data, that the numbers have a 95% chance of falling within that range,
17.8%
20.0%
if the survey was to be repeated. Because the confidence intervals are
13.7%
15.0%
so large, the reader is cautioned about making comparisons to state
10.0%
level data. Because the 7 counties share many similar demographic,
5.0%
geographic , social and economic characteristics, this data can be
viewed as being reasonably representative of Tuolumne County.
0.0%
7 regional
counties
California
Percent of respondents
reporting being diagnosed
with Diabetes
2009 CHIS, all ages
10%
8%
8.5%
6.1%
6%
4%
2%
0%
7 regional
counties
California
Data Source: http://www.chis.ucla.edu/
Asthma (CHIS)
The reported percentage of asthma in the region is 17.8%, with a
confidence interval as low as 12.7% and high as 22.8%. This data
includes both adults and children. The data for the rates for children
and teens in the region was too low to be reliable.
Diabetes (CHIS)
The reported percentage of diabetes in the region is 6.1% with a
confidence interval between 3.4% and 8.8%. This data includes both
adults and children. The data disaggregated by adults and children
was too low to be reliable. Because of the low numbers in the data,
the confidence intervals were so high for Type I and Type II diabetes
data, that the numbers were not useful.
Healthy Weight, Body Mass Index - CHIS
Adult Healthy Weight
Reliable CHIS BMI data is available for adults in the region. The CHIS BMI data for teens and children is
unreliable, based on the low number of data points.
19
Body Mass Index, based on information asked of
respondents 18 years or older, CHIS 2009
Obese (30 or higher)
23%
26%
34%
39%
Overweight (25-29.9)
California
Underweight (0-18.49)
7 regional counties
41%
33%
Normal Weight (18.5-24.9)
2%
2%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%
The high confidence intervals
on the regional data advise
caution, but the data shows a
tendency for regional adults
to be overweight or obese at
slightly higher rates than is
seen statewide.
Even without comparisons,
the data clearly show that the
majority of adults in the
region are above normal
weight, and close to 1/4th are
obese. Obesity puts
individuals at risk for
diabetes, heart disease and
other serious chronic health
conditions.
Children’s Healthy Weight
School level data is available for children’s weight in grades 5, 7 and 9. The chart shows the percentage of
public school students in grades 5, 7,
Percent of public school students who are normal
and 9 with body composition falling
weight or underweight, Academic Year 2010-11
within or below the Healthy Fitness
Zone, which is based on skinfold
Grade 9
Grade 7
Grade 5
measurements, body mass index, or
bioelectric impedance analysis.
72%
California
These data show that children in
Tuolumne County are more than
twice as likely to be a healthy weight
as are adults. This is true in the
region and statewide. However,
rates of up to 28% of children who are
over a healthy weight remain a cause
for ongoing education efforts.
Tuolumne County
Amador County
Calaveras County
Mariposa County
70%
70%
72%
74%
71%
70%
71%
72%
69%
74%
76%
78%
76%
78%
Data source: kidsdata.org,
http://www.kidsdata.org
20
Children’s Physical Fitness
One indicator of physical fitness is the percentage
of students meeting all 6 of California’s fitness
standards. This is measured through the
California Physical Fitness Test, which is
administered annually to public school children in
grades 5, 7, and 9. The 6 areas of fitness
measured include: upper body strength,
flexibility, aerobic capacity, body composition,
abdominal strength, and trunk strength. Students
must meet minimum fitness levels in each area to
pass this state test.
Percent of Students Meeting All Fitness
Standards, By Grade Level: 2011
31.2%
36.8%
Grade 9
28.9%
32.1%
Grade 7
30.6%
25.2%
Grade 5
0%
20%
Tuolumne County
California
40%
Regular physical activity helps muscle development, bone health, and heart health. Children who regularly
exercise also tend to have lower levels of depression and anxiety, and are more likely to carry their healthy
lifestyle into adulthood, reducing their risk of chronic disease. Over the previous decade (1999-2010), the
statewide percentage of students meeting all fitness standards generally increased for all grade levels,
racial/ethnic groups, and for girls and boys.
Tuolumne County students met the fitness standards at similar rates as did children statewide.
Data source: kidsdata.org, http://www.kidsdata.org
In-Hospital Breastfeeding Rates
24-48 Hours after Birth, 2010
Breastfeeding Rates
Data is available for in-hospital rates of
breastfeeding, either with formula or
120%
exclusively, for 24-48 hours after birth, at
93.7%
90.8%
100%
In-Hospital
all maternity hospitals in the state. When
67.7%
80%
Breastfeeding - Any
babies receive only breast milk, they are
56.8%
60%
said to be “exclusively breastfed.” “Any
40%
In-Hospital
breastfeeding” refers to babies who receive
Breastfeeding 20%
both breast milk and formula, as well as
Exclusive
0%
those who are exclusively breastfed.
Tuolumne
California
These data are important because the first
two days after birth is a critical time for the success of breastfeeding, and hospital practices can either support
or hinder a mother’s success.
Tuolumne residents had higher breastfeeding rates, especially exclusive breastfeeding rates than those of
California as a whole. Statewide data show that northern California counties have higher rates of exclusive
breastfeeding than Central Valley or Southern California counties. Data Sources: California Department of Public
Health Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health http://www.cdph.ca.gov/data/statistics/Documents/MO-BFPCountyofResidence-RaceEthnicityReport-2010.pdf California WIC Association http://calwic.org/factsheets2012
21
Immunization Rates
The rates of children immunized prior
to Kindergarten increased, then
decreased in the last ten years, staying
95.0%
at about 75%. The rates have been
consistently lower than statewide
90.0%
rates. Regional rates are also lower
85.0%
84.8%
than the state, but somewhat higher
than Tuolumne. (Regional Counties
Tuolumne
80.0%
include Amador, Calaveras, Mariposa
Regional Average
75.0%
74.8%
74.6%
and Tuolumne). Reasons for failing to
California
70.0%
immunize a child could be for a variety
of reasons: they may not have
65.0%
received all of the vaccines (a
60.0%
“conditional” status), or parents may
2001-2002 2005-2006 2011-2012
choose not to immunize at all ( a
“personal belief” exemption). Or, children may have a permanent medical exemption.
Percent of Kindergarteners Up to Date on Their
Immunizations
The rate of parents who choose not to
immunize their children is almost 6 times
higher in Tuolumne County, and 3 times
higher in the region, than statewide.
Although the trend is increasing statewide,
it remains significantly higher in the
foothill counties. Almost half the children
who were not immunized in Tuolumne
county were personal belief exemptions.
Percent of Kindergartener Personal Belief
Exemptions to immunization
14%
12.1%
12%
10%
Tuolumne
8%
6%
4%
6.9%
5.9%
Regional Average
California
The other half of the children not
2%
immunized were considered
“conditional,” that is, they were missing
0%
2001-02
2005-06
2011-12
one of more of the required
immunizations, but were not currently due
for any remaining doses, or they had temporary medical exemptions. These conditions are linked more to
access, information and possibly the increased number of required immunizations, rather than parents choosing
not to immunize due to a personal belief system. The rate of conditional status has dropped in the county in
the last ten years.
22
Change (in percent) between 2001 and 2011
between entrants status in Kindegarten Immunization Assessment
15%
12%
10%
7%
5%
5%
0%
0%
3%
2%
1%
0%
2%
0%
-5%
Up to Date
Conditional
Tuolumne California
-1%
Amador Calaveras Mariposa
-5%
Personal Belief Exemption
-6%
-10%
-9%
-13%
-15%
Data Source: California Dept. of Public Health School Immunization Rates and Immunization Levels
http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/immunize/Pages/ImmunizationRatesatCaliforniaSchools.aspx
http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/immunize/Pages/ImmunizationLevels.aspx Vaccination Coverage in Children 20012006 http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/immunize/Documents/VaccinationCoverageSectionAnnualReport2007[1].pdf
Health Insurance
CHIS Insurance Survey
Types of insurance, for residents of the
region ages birth to 64, CHIS 2009
Types of insurance for residents of
the region age 65 and older, CHIS
2009
Medicare and Others
Employment-based
MediCal only
Healthy Families
Medicare & Others
Privately purchased
Other public
Medicare only
Employment-based
Uninsured
5%
6%
2%
7%
12%
8%
1%
18%
50%
91%
23
Reliable data is available for the region based on CHIS survey information. Regional residents had many sources
of insurance, while 12% reported being uninsured. Please note that for types of insurances with percentages
under 50% that the confidence intervals are almost half of the value (that is, an 8% value could be in the range
of 4-12%), so the percentages should only be viewed as a general idea of the types of insurance. There is
additional locally collected data on senior health insurance coverage in the report section titled “Seniors”.
Data Source: California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) http://www.chis.ucla.edu/
Medi-Cal Insurance
Data on Medi-Cal enrollment is
available for individual counties in the
region. In 2011, 8,283 individuals (or
15% of the population) were enrolled
in Medi-Cal in Tuolumne County.
Medi-Cal enrollment and growth in
Tuolumne (like neighboring counties)
was slightly lower than the statewide
rate.
Of the enrollees, 64% were female, a
percentage reflected statewide and in
neighboring counties.
Population Enrolled in Medi-Cal and
annual growth 2010-2011
California
20.2
2.7
Tuolumne
15.2
1.7
Amador
6.2
Calaveras
4.2
0.0
12.1
Percent Change in
annual enrollment in
2011
14.9
1.9
Mariposa
Percent of Population
Enrolled in 2011
10.0
16.0
20.0
30.0
Forty-eight percent of the Medi-Cal
enrollees are children up to age 18, and another 20% are females, age 19-44, presumably the mothers of these
children. The Medi-Cal enrollment reflects 34% of the children in Tuolumne county ages birth to 18, 12% of the
population age 19-64, and 7% of the senior population age 65 and older.
Healthy Families Insurance and AIM
As of April 2013, 780 children up to age 19 were enrolled in Healthy Families Insurance in Tuolumne County. Of
these, 196 were enrolled in the last year. Healthy Families Insurance provides low cost health, dental and vision
coverage to uninsured children, until the age of 19, in working families that meet eligibility requirements for
residency, citizenship, and income guidelines. The number of children enrolled in Healthy Families Insurance has
stayed relatively steady in the last five years, representing approximately 7% of the population of children.
As of April 2013, 13 mothers were enrolled in the Access for Infants and Mothers (AIM) Program. This
represents about 3% of the annual average births (5 year average) in Tuolumne County. AIM provides low cost
health insurance coverage to uninsured, middle income pregnant women. The total cost is 1.5% of the
subscriber's adjusted annual household income. The State of California and the Federal Government supplement
the subscriber contribution to cover the full cost of care. Babies born to AIM mothers are eligible for enrollment
in the Healthy Families Insurance Program. The number of mothers enrolled in AIM has fluctuated in the last 5
years, ranging from 13-30. When enrollment numbers are so low, there can be wide percentage fluctuations
representing a small difference in the number of women enrolled, and no trend conclusions should be drawn.
24
There is no County Children’s Health Initiative Program (C-CHIP) in Tuolumne County or in surrounding foothill
counties.
Data Source: State of California Managed Risk Medical Insurance Board http://www.mrmib.ca.gov/MRMIB/Reports.html
County Medical Services Program (CMSP)
The County Medical Services Program (CMSP) provides health coverage for low-income, indigent adults in thirtyfive, primarily rural California counties. The number of individuals eligible for and enrolled in CMSP in
Tuolumne County as of June of 2012, was 1,612 individuals. This is an increase of over 200 (14%) from 12
months earlier. Of these enrollees, 85% are eligible for Path2 Health with no share of costs. To be eligible for
CMSP, an individual has to be between ages 21 through 64, and have income at or below 200% of the federal
poverty level, and not be eligible for Medi-Cal benefits. The current federal poverty level is $11,170 for a oneperson household. Data Source: Local agency reports and County Medical Services Program County Specific Reports
http://www.cmspcounties.org/data/county_specific.html
Health Rankings
The County Health Ranking and Roadmaps Program, developed at the University of Wisconsin, ranks countylevel indicator data on a variety of factors that influence healthy communities. These data are available for all
states. The indicators include health outcomes (mortality and morbidity) and health factors (health behaviors,
clinical care, social and economic factors and the physical environment). These indicators are measured against
national benchmarks, and compared across counties in the state. The site provides a ranking of the most
healthy (#1) to the least healthy (#57) county in California (with the smallest county not participating).
Tuolumne county ranks number 22 overall, which is in the middle range of the rankings. The ranking is based
on the following characteristics:
Indicator Categories
Statewide
Ranking
Subset indicators – Tuolumne Characteristics compared to the
California averages.
#1 = healthiest
Physical Environment
29
Social and Emotional
Factors
22
Clinical Care
7
Mortality and
Morbidity
22-29
Health Behaviors
41
Negatives were air pollution (presumably from wood fire smoke) and
limited access to healthy foods. Positives were safe drinking water,
access to recreational facilities and fewer fast food restaurants (but not
as few as the national benchmark).
Good high school graduation rates, lower violent crime rate. Children in
poverty and single-family households were similar to state rates. Social
support higher than state rates. Unemployment higher, rates of some
college lower.
Better rates of mammography and diabetic screening, lower rates of
hospital stays, uninsured. Higher ratio of primary care physicians and
dentists.
Premature death rates (deaths before age 75) slightly higher than state
rates). Poor physical and mental health days similar to state rates. Poor
health and low birth weight slightly lower than state rates.
Higher rates of smoking, excessive drinking, and motor vehicle crash
death rates (compared to state rates). Similar rates of adult obesity and
physical inactivity. Lower rates of sexually transmitted infections and
teen births, although still higher than national benchmarks.
25
Although this data is of interest for community health planning, the error margins in the data set for Tuolumne
are high. However, even when these are taken into account, most of the significant differences between
Tuolumne indicators and California indicators remain. The major health concerns in Tuolumne County are linked
to health behaviors, such as smoking, excessive drinking, and motor vehicle crash death rates. While it is true,
that the types of roads and highways in foothill and mountainous counties can be unforgiving, there is a high
rate of DUI arrests, which is a major contributing factor.
Data Source: County Health Ranking and Roadmaps Program, Univ. Washington, Robert Woods Foundation
http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/#app/california/2012
Seniors
Two surveys were recently done in Mother Lode communities in 2011. One was done by the Area 12 Agency on
Aging (which included individuals age 50 and above), and the other was done by the Mother Lode Office of
Catholic Charities (which included individuals age 60 and above). In Tuolumne County, 427 seniors responded to
the A12AA survey and 306 to the Catholic Charities survey. It is likely that some seniors responded to both
surveys. The surveys measured the following indicators for seniors in Tuolumne County. Where the two surveys
asked the same question, the result with the highest percentage has been provided in the following summary.
Well Being: The majority of respondents reported being happy. Seventy-six percent had lived in their
communities for over 10 years, 72% lived with others, primarily with a spouse or partner. Most (76%) lived
within 2 hours of their nearest child, and 75% reported that their nearest friend lived less than 20 minutes away.
Most seniors responding had good social connections, with frequent contact with neighbors, friends or relatives,
attending social events or religious services, and many doing volunteer work or helping neighbors. Only 20% of
seniors reported that they would like to be doing more social activities.
Financial: The greatest source of income was Social Security. Of the respondents over age 60, 23% continue
to work, either full time or part time. Of those not working, one-fourth stated they would like to be working for
pay. For those who participated in the survey prior to retirement, 63% thought that they might have to work
after retirement for sufficient income. Less than half of the respondents had additional income from pensions
and less than a third reported having income from savings. 66% had household income of less than $50,000 per
year; 27% had household income of less than $20,000 per year. The biggest challenges with insufficient funds
were in obtaining dental care (14%), obtaining eyeglasses (9%), paying for prescriptions (9%), or paying rent,
mortgage or real estate taxes (6%).
Housing and Transportation: Almost all respondents (93%) wished to stay in their current homes as long as
possible, and were confident in their ability to afford to do so. While over one-third acknowledged that this
would require some residential repairs, 30% of these noted that they did not plan to make them, primarily due
to cost, the inability to do it themselves, or uncertainty over whether they would still be living there. Most
(78%) of seniors live in a one-family house, with the next largest groups living in mobile home parks (12%) or
apartments/condominiums (3%). Most (90%) owned their own home. Half (51%) did not think that their living
situation would change in the future, with the remainder thinking of moving to residences that would provide
them with more support. Seniors felt safe in their neighborhoods (93%), with the biggest concern being that
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streets and sidewalks need repair or don’t exist (30%) and the limitations of public transportation (21% of
respondents). Most seniors (89%) drive a car to do their errands, 8% ride in a car, while only 3% utilize a
transportation service. Only 1% reported using public transportation. One out of 6 reported difficulty in getting
where they needed to go.
Health: Most seniors (84%) report good to
excellent health and over half of the
respondents ( 57%) reported having adequate
Other
Military
None
post-retirement health care. The primary
4%
(VA)
3%
health care insurance for seniors was
8%
Self or
Medicare, followed by employer/union, self or
spouse
spouse-funded policies, or military plans. Most
funded
8%
seniors sought care at doctor’s offices or
clinics, with 2% noting that they do not have a
Employer or
Medicare/
regular place to go. The majority reported
union
MC
11%
having regular preventative health measures
Medi-Cal
Advantage
and tests. Arthritis was the most commonly
1%
65%
reported health problem, followed by high
blood pressure and overweight/obesity. Onefifth (20%) reported feeling depressed or anxious in the last year, and, of these, over half (57%) sought
professional help for these issues. 72% reported doing physical activities at least one or two times a week.
Primary Health Care Insurance for Seniors
in Tuolumne County 2011
Fewer seniors reported food insecurity (10%) than the general population (CHIS) regional survey of 34%, and
most (86%) reported that they had consumed five servings of fruits and vegetables at least once a week.
Needs and Concerns: Very few of the people surveyed (7%) reported having trouble with the “activities of
daily living” (bathing dressing, eating, mobility) but, of these, 31% stated that they were not getting the help
they needed. A higher percent (12%) reported having trouble with the “instrumental activities of daily living”
(shopping, housework, preparing meals, taking medications, finances) and, of these, 32% reported that they
were not getting the help they needed. Over one-fourth (28%) of the respondents provide some level of
caregiving for relatives (53%), friends (25%) or others, with most reporting spending 1-3 hours per week in these
activities in the Catholic Charity survey, and 20 hours per week in the A12AA survey. The difference here may be
the number of individuals age 50-60 who are caring for an aging parent. Another possibility is that the wording
of the question elicited different responses.
The needs and concerns most cited as “big issues” were paying for dental, having enough money to live on,
driving, home repairs/maintenance, driving, power outages and severe weather, and paying for health care or
planning for future care. Tuolumne seniors identified needing help with a number of issues, with 5% or more of
respondents identifying home repairs/maintenance, household chores, paying for dental, paying for utilities,
being aware of services and planning future care. Immediate family members help the most with household
chores and repairs/maintenance. Most people that seniors rely on to help them (58%) are not paid.
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Looking ahead, seniors are most worried about taking care of themselves and their homes, being able to drive,
and declining health.
Local Needs Assessments and Scorecards
Various other needs assessments and community indicator reports are prepared by organizations in Tuolumne
County. Many of the data in these reports is presented in earlier sections of this report.
Two reports of note are:
Tolumne County Public Health Dept. Maternal, Child, and Adolescent Health Program Five Year Needs
Assessment for 2010-2014 is available from the Tuolumne Co. Health Department. Areas of concern identified
through the analysis of health status indicators are, by priority level:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Deaths Ages 15-19
Adequate Prenatal Care
Short inter-pregnancy interval
Domestic Violence
Overweight Children
Non-Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents Ages 15-14
The report notes that the three interrelated issues which are over-arching barriers to family well-being in
Tuolumne County are dysfunctional families, poverty and substance abuse, including tobacco, alcohol, and
other drugs.
The Sonora Foundation prepares a Tuolumne County Profile on a regular basis, using a number of
community indicators. The most recent profile was completed by the Center for Economic Development at
California State University, Chico. The link to this profile is: http://www.tuolumnecountyprofile.org/
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