By 2030, 20 percent of New York’s population will be older than 60. Here and around the world, the victory of longer life expectancy comes with unprecedented challenges for the social safety net. New York is starting to grapple with them now. This project is supported by The New York Foundation.
We asked 26 senior citizens at three centers around the city what they think are the best and worst parts about getting older in the five boroughs. Some of the answers were not what we were expecting to hear.
State regulations force workers to accept dire wages, and it’s time for the state to take responsibility for covering these costs and rectifying a system it has neglected for decades.
‘Today’s marginalized conditions of the old are ignored by economic, political and cultural leaders. For them, ageism, unlike racism or sexism, is powder-puff oppression.’
In this year’s budget process, advocates have elevated two asks: one for $20 million in additional senior-center meals funding, and another for $15 million for delivered meals.
‘We will fight this tooth and nail,’ said one Councilmember of a proposal to shut down several social clubs now operated by NYCHA.
What do New York City’s aging residents think of New York City’s aging services? City Limits asked people at three senior centers.
City Limits produced simple guides to the budget process for older New Yorkers, in three languages.
Fewer savings, lower levels of homeownership, higher likelihood of serving as an unpaid caregiver … While all aging New Yorkers face obstacles, Black and Latino seniors often encounter steeper ones.
Toni Kamins | Today, New York City doesn’t have enough affordable senior housing to meet current demand. By the year 2030, the city’s over-65 population will be 1.35 million, 14.8 percent of its total.By the year 2030, the city’s over-65 population will be 1.35 million, 14.8 percent of its total.
The commissioner of the city’s Department for the Aging writes: ‘One thing is clear: We share the same unwavering commitment to supporting older New Yorkers as they age in place with dignity.’