The 2025 Service Needs Assessment by the New York City Department for the Aging (NYC Aging) recently surveyed about 1.8 million older New Yorkers (age 60+) and 1.3 million caregivers in NYC. The results show a concerning gap between the needs of our older population and the safety net services available to meet those needs.
Summary of Key Facts & Statistics
- The older-adult population of NYC increased by almost 40% between 1980 and 2023.
- Over 60% of older New Yorkers now identify as a race other than white — and half speak a language other than English at home.
- Economically, 18% live below the federal poverty line, and 26% receive benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- Despite the growing need, in fiscal year 2024, NYC Aging and its partners served about 215,000 clients — only about 12% of the older-adult population.
- From the survey of older adults and caregivers (May–Sept 2024), many reported unmet basic needs: 41% had difficulty paying at least one bill; 30% struggled to buy healthy food; nearly 27% lacked stable housing; over 36% reported at least one limitation to leaving their home; and one in five said they experienced age discrimination.
What Do We Do About It?
Now that we’ve seen the data, there are steps we can take to make things better. Start by spreading the word — you are not alone. There are many services available for older adults, their families, and caregivers. Organizations like Care Answered can help identify the best care options — offering loved ones peace of mind and empowering older adults themselves. Contact us if your loved one is going through a transition of care.
Our goal is to get care done — and done well.
There are also a myriad of services, and activities that may fit your likes, culture, schedule and needs. Check out our webinar for some great ideas and opportunities as well.
In this season of Thanksgiving, many of the quality non-profits listed could really benefit from donations to keep their fabulous programs running.
Resources
NYC
- NYC Department for the Aging — find services, activities, and assistance for older adults and caregivers.
- Call 311 — New York City’s non-emergency number for city services and government information; you can inquire about anything from trash pickup to available services in your area.
Nonprofits & Support Organizations
- New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) — “Where your story becomes our shared fight for justice.”
- Arts & Minds — offers art-centered programs for adults with memory loss, Alzheimer’s or dementia, and their care partners.
- SAGE Serves — where LGBT+ aging meets support, strength, and solutions.
- Alzheimer’s Association — provides information and resources for people living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
Long Island
- Nassau County Department of Human Services for the Aging — helps older adults in Nassau County find resources.
- Suffolk County Office for the Aging — directs older adults in Suffolk County to services.
- Project Independence – Town of North Hempstead Department for the Aging — mission: help residents remain in their own community as they age, if they choose.
Nonprofits & Support Organizations
- NYLAG New York Legal Assistance Group – here your story becomes our shared fight for justice
- Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center (LIAD) — offers hands-on services, respite support, and stimulating programs.
- Alzheimer’s Association (see above).
- Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Center (ADRC) — provides resources and support for those impacted by cognitive decline.