Call-In Press Briefing

• by New York State Office for the Aging

ALBANY, NY (10/13/2009)(readMedia)-- Governor David A. Paterson recently unveiled support for an initiative to help older New Yorkers remain in their homes and communities of choice, rather than relocating. The Governor announced that Livable Communities initiatives in New York State, including work being conducted by the New York State Office for the Aging, are vital to ensuring New Yorkers of all ages continue to live and thrive in their homes and communities. The State Office for the Aging is assisting local communities plan for the changing demographic shift that will be playing out across communities here and across the nation over the next several decades.

According to a recent AARP report, over 90% of older adults surveyed want to remain in their homes and communities. By the year 2025, the population of New Yorkers age sixty and over is projected to grow from 3.5 million to 4.9 million, a 39 percent increase, making up 24 percent of the general population.