Selfhelp Community Services Responds to Governor Hochul’s Master Plan for Aging

Selfhelp Community Services Chief Executive Officer Stuart C. Kaplan issued the following statement today about Governor Hochul’s Master Plan for Aging, which is designed to ensure that older adults and individuals of all ages can live healthy, fulfilling lives while aging with dignity and independence:

Governor Hochul’s final Master Plan for Aging marks a major step forward for New York State and embodies the heart of our mission. As one of only a handful of states to undertake such a comprehensive analysis, New York is demonstrating national leadership by taking a holistic approach to the needs of its growing aging population.

The plan builds on New York’s legacy as the nation’s first Age-Friendly state, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that older adults, caregivers, persons with disabilities, and future generations can thrive in inclusive, supportive communities.

The Master Plan for Aging brought together the expertise of more than 350 stakeholders and experts – including Selfhelp - from across the state to address the core issues facing older New Yorkers. Framed by nine thematic pillars, the plan outlines both immediate and long-term strategies to help residents age with dignity, independence, and security.

This initiative recognizes the demographic realities facing New York and sets forth a vision for meeting the evolving needs of older adults through innovative, coordinated solutions. The Master Plan on Aging proposals allow people not only to age in place, which recognizes “where individuals want to live” but also facilitates aging on pace, which recognizes “how individuals want to live,” taking into consideration passions, choices and abilities.

Selfhelp applauds Governor Hochul’s leadership and the collaborative effort behind the Master Plan for Aging. By prioritizing the well-being of older adults and taking decisive action, New York is ensuring that it remains a great place for people of all ages to live life to the fullest.

Selfhelp is dedicated to providing care that is compassionate, trusted, and innovative, always respecting the life experiences of those they serve. Each year, Selfhelp supports 25,000 individuals through affordable housing, home care, and community-based services, supporting aging with dignity and independence. The organization’s unique approach is rooted in their longstanding work with Holocaust survivors. www.selfhelp.net