Age Strong NYS
Today, far too many older New Yorkers are left behind. Older adult centers struggle with broken HVAC systems and infestations they can’t afford to address. Waitlists for critical services stretch for miles. Too many older adults are forced to impoverish themselves to qualify for Medicaid and long-term care, simply because non-Medicaid services have been underfunded for decades. This is the reality across our state—and it’s unsustainable.
Goals of Age Strong NYS:
We envision an Empire State that is fully committed to ensuring all can thrive in old age. New York’s Master Plan on Aging is a start, but it must be expanded to include funding and ongoing executive commitment. We are calling upon Governor Hochul to include aging as a core pillar of her priorities with a specific focus on:
An All-Government Approach with an Executive Chamber role specifically responsible for a coordinated response across every agency, with clear accountability for implementing a cohesive aging vision through both public and private entities.
Significant investments to support today’s older adults and prepare our state for the future, aligned to the New York State Master Plan for Aging recommendations, to establish a dedicated and consistent budget for aging that reflects the needs and value of older New Yorkers.
Public transparency to guarantee efficacy, with clear metrics to mark the success and progress of programs.
With one in four New Yorkers over the age of 60 by 2030, this crisis will only deepen unless we act now. Older adults are finding themselves in poverty, unable to keep up with increasing costs, and gaps in services force family members to leave the workforce.
By embracing a new, comprehensive approach to aging, NY State will put a strong infrastructure in place that will be long-lasting, support an ever-growing number of aging New Yorkers and have benefits for entire communities.
Together, we can create a state that values and protects its older residents, ensuring every New Yorker has the opportunity to thrive at any age. We call on New York State’s leaders to act with urgency and vision. The time to invest in our shared future is now.
Take Action Now:
Attend Age Strong New York State Advocacy Day: February 11, 2025
Sign On for FY26 Budget Prioirities - COMING SOON!
UPCOMING AGE STRONG NYS ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES
PAST ADVOCACY
PAST ADVOCACY HIGHLIGHTS BELOW:
