Opinion: New York’s future depends on investing in older adults

When it comes to care for older adults, New York state stands at a crossroads. Older New Yorkers deserve a future where aging in place is the standard, giving them the ability to remain in their communities with the care and services they need to thrive. Aging in place means having access to essential resources – affordable housing, transportation, home care and social supports – so that older adults can live safely and independently within their communities. The Master Plan for Aging, introduced in 2022, offers a bold framework to transform support for older adults by prioritizing independence and community-based care. The state is in the final stages of finalizing its plan to implement this important piece of legislation, and we are calling on policymakers to move away from institutional care and center a community care model that prioritizes aging in place.

The current system too often pushes older adults towards institutions when they struggle to care for themselves, even when they could remain at home with proper support. Designed decades ago, it falls short of meeting the needs of the 77% of adults aged 50 and older who have expressed a strong desire to remain in their homes. By 2030, the New York population of adults aged 65 and above is projected to increase by 25%, to 4.3 million. With increased longevity, later adulthood now spans a broader age range, yet the system remains rooted in outdated institutional models of care. Those models fail to reflect the realities of today’s older adults, who are more ethnically, socially and economically diverse than in the past.

Community-based care is both cost-effective and person-centered. Studies show it can reduce Medicaid spending by as much as 30% while improving quality of life by avoiding hospitalizations and delivering individualized care. New York City has demonstrated the benefits of this model through initiatives like the NYC Aging caregiver support program, which provides respite care, counseling and resources for family caregivers. Housing is another pillar of aging in place and must be treated as a foundation for holistic care. The city has also invested in affordable housing solutions, including a record number of older adult units built in 2024, and ongoing support of Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities to help older adults remain in their communities with the support they need. Programs like the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption and Disability Rent Increase Exemption ensure that older New Yorkers can afford stable housing, preventing unnecessary displacement into institutional settings. These efforts can be a model for the rest of the state.

Key recommendations from the Master Plan for the Aging include workforce development and caregiver support. Addressing the caregiver shortage requires investments in training, scholarships and grants to build a skilled, diverse workforce. Partnering with educational institutions, such as community colleges and universities, can create specialized degree and certificate programs in home care and geriatric care.

Financial relief for family caregivers is also necessary. Reimbursements and tax credits for home modification, equipment, and home health aides can reduce the burden on informal caregivers. State-funded respite services and counseling can further enhance their ability to support older adults while maintaining their own well-being. Together, these measures can address the caregiver shortage and allow older adults to access quality care.

Expanding these models and adding more infrastructure – such as safer sidewalks, well-placed benches and accessible crossings – enhances age-inclusive community design, boosting mobility and safety for older adults while fostering walkable neighborhoods for all generations. Establishing partnerships with healthcare providers, municipal governments and community organizations can further support these efforts, ensuring that housing developments are tailored to meet the unique needs of older adults.

Funding remains the greatest challenge. Community and preventive care are far too often underfunded despite their proven long-term cost savings. Policymakers must view these services as an investment in New York’s future. Addressing care needs earlier prevents crises such as asset depletion or severe illness, reducing the need for costly institutional care.

The Medicaid 1115 Waiver provides a huge opportunity to enhance supports for aging in place. Although initially overlooked, older adults should be prioritized within the waiver so New York can maximize its impact. Enhanced services such as housing, transportation and nutrition are critical to supporting independence and well-being. Aligning the Master Plan for Aging’s priorities with the 1115 Waiver’s framework can create a stronger foundation for community-based care. At a minimum, policymakers must invest in caregivers, workforce development and housing reform to enable older adults to age in place. The state cannot afford to remain trapped in outdated medical and institutional models. Investing in preventive care today will reduce costly institutionalization tomorrow and strengthen community partnerships.

Community care is life changing. It empowers older adults to live independently, develop meaningful connections and contribute to the vibrancy of their neighborhoods. Aging is not a challenge to be managed but an opportunity to support those who have built the communities we treasure. It is also a reminder that aging affects us all.

Investing in community care reflects New York’s commitment to creating an inclusive future where all generations of families benefit from policies that support independence and well-being. By leveraging creative solutions, New York can continue to lead the nation in demonstrating that older adults are central to a thriving and interconnected society. The time to act is now.