Empowering New York Communities
Welcome and thank you for your interest in empowering New York communities for successful aging. This initiative has been a priority of the NYS Office for the Aging since 2007.
The Need . . . New York’s older population is growing rapidly, and by the year 2015 adults age sixty and over will make up 20 to 29 percent of the general population. Not only will this cohort be 50% larger than the existing senior adult population, it will also be more culturally and economically diverse. Older adults express an overwhelming desire to live independently. This major population shift presents a challenge to communities, government agencies, providers of housing and senior services, and other entities involved with older adults.
Aging in the Community of Choice…We know that the vast majority of older adults want to age in their own homes and communities. Many call this “Aging in Place” but since many may choose to move out of their present home, we now call this practice “Aging in the Community of Choice.” It is about living with dignity through promoting wellness and independence, rather than allowing a decline that leads to premature institutionalization. It is clear that working to provide the services and quality of life that older adults demand will generate some tremendous challenges but also some unprecedented opportunities.
Livable Communities…There are many factors that support Aging in the Community. These include housing, transportation, volunteering, and health & wellness. This chart shows the factors that are important in assessing or building a Livable Community.
Click for larger version of chart
You will find some key resources on these topics by reviewing the Best Practices section.
Additional resources…Among other activities to support this initiative, NYSOFA has co-hosted two conferences, one held in 2008 in Saratoga Springs, and one held in 2010 in two locations, Albany and Batavia. The conferences brought together older New Yorkers, community leaders, government agencies, housing and senior services providers and other entities serving older adults. Designed to address the needs of the rapidly increasing aging population in New York State, the conferences presented innovative best practices from around the nation and within the state.
Click this link to review available presentations: http://www.empoweringnycommunities.org
NYS Office for the Aging Director Michael Burgess' Opening Session Remarks 2008 Conference
NYS Office for the Aging Director Michael Burgess' Opening Session Remarks 2010 Conference
Regional Happenings….All across the state, wonderful things are happening in our communities. So many people are part of the aging and health care networks that are helping to keep older family, friends and residents living in the community. You will find some of those initiatives listed by reviewing the Regional Happenings section.
Getting started…connect to others working to make their communities places where persons of all ages can live and age well. Use our model toolkit for organizing meetings in your neighborhood or join the list serve. Questions – just call us at 1-800-342-9871 or contact us communityempowerment@ofa.state.ny.us
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