Governor Cuomo Proclaims September Assisted Living Month

Empire State Association of Assisted Living (ESAAL) members host events at licensed residences across the state

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CLIFTON PARK, NY (09/03/2013)(readMedia)-- Governor Andrew Cuomo has proclaimed September Assisted Living Month in recognition of the more than 2 million New Yorkers that will need some form of long-term care by 2015. Assisted living is a popular long-term care option that provides a comfortable setting for New York's seniors. ESAAL received the proclamation on Tuesday, September 3.

In observance of Assisted Living Month, ESAAL members throughout the state are hosting a number of events, bringing together residents, families, employees, volunteers and the surrounding community.

"Assisted Living Month presents an opportunity for all aging New Yorkers and their families to discuss their future long-term care needs and consider assisted living as a beneficial option," said Lisa Newcomb, ESAAL executive director. "For those no longer able to live alone, licensed assisted living is a viable alternative, offering them not only assistance with daily living, but many opportunities for socialization and activity."

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the older population segment is increasingly living longer; indeed the number of New Yorker's 85 and older is projected to double by 2030.

"Today, access to quality, affordable long-term care is a necessity," said Newcomb.

New York has several types of licensed residences: adult homes, enriched housing programs, assisted living programs and assisted living residences. While accommodations vary among residences, each offers a home-like atmosphere and is dedicated to preserving the dignity and independence of residents.

Some residences in New York State are licensed to provide "aging in place" programs which allow seniors to remain in their current assisted living setting even as they begin to require more specialized care. One of these programs, the Assisted Living Program (ALP), enables seniors to utilize Medicaid for assisted living expenses.

Other options such as Enhanced Assisted Living Residences and Special Needs Assisted Living Residences accommodate seniors who have higher needs due to either dementia or physical limitations.

"On behalf of ESAAL's licensed adult care facility and assisted living providers, I am proud to say that we remain committed to providing a safe and happy environment for our residents and staff," said Newcomb. "I urge seniors and their families who are unfamiliar with assisted living to contact and visit a local licensed residence during Assisted Living Month."

Assisted Living Month in New York commemorates National Assisted Living Week (NALW), which will take place Sept. 8 – 14, 2013, and will feature the theme "Homemade Happiness." Homemade Happiness celebrates the bond created by staff, residents and families as they build warm, welcoming, and vibrant homes for residents. ESAAL encourages all to join in celebrating residents' lives and thanking volunteers, family members and staff.

For more information about New York State Assisted Living Month or for details about assisted living options, please visit www.esaal.org. For a listing of member residences in your community, please visit: www.esaal.org and click on Find a Member Residence.

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Empire State Association of Assisted Living is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening New York State's assisted living industry and promoting the best interests of providers and residents. Founded in 1979, ESAAL is the only association that exclusively represents the assisted living industry, serving more than 280 Assisted Living Residences, Adult Homes, Enriched Housing Programs and Assisted Living Programs throughout New York State. These member residences are home to more than 22,000 seniors.

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