Vibrant Emotional Health (Vibrant) has joined over 125 organizations across New York State to advocate for vital funding for older adults. Together, we've endorsed a letter urging Governor Kathy C. Hochul and legislative leaders to prioritize critical funding required for New Yorkers to age with dignity and independence.

The State Legislature outlined its unwavering commitment to aging services in the One House budget it released last week. Their proposal includes $42 million to end the statewide home and community-based services waitlist. They have also proposed millions to expand NORC programs, increase oversight of long-term care facilities, restore funding for nursing services, and more. 

While this marks a significant step forward, the work is far from over. The upcoming budget negotiations present a critical opportunity to ensure that the funding allocated for senior services remains in the final budget. 

With nearly 1 in 5 New Yorkers aged 65 and older, family caregivers are crucial in caring for their aging relatives. However, the proposed cuts in the Executive Budget fail to acknowledge the invaluable role these caregivers play in our long-term care system.  In addition, the extensive waiting list for the State Office for the Aging (SOFA) services is a stark reminder of the pressing need for action. With over 11,000 requests pending for non-Medicaid home- and community-based care services, families are left with limited options.

The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP), intended to advocate for the vulnerable in institutions, is encountering significant obstacles. Only 12% of facilities receive regular visits from Ombudsmen, leaving residents susceptible to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The proposed $2.5 million cut to the program is unacceptable.

A shortfall in funding compromises the quality of life for older individuals, which can exacerbate mental health challenges by limiting their access to much-needed resources, social connections, and care. Vibrant has long acknowledged the adverse consequences of funding reductions, recognizing that older adults may suffer loneliness, depression, and anxiety as their access to community services is diminished.

Contact your state legislators to thank them for supporting this funding and let them know how critical it is to expand aging services in New York State.