Senator Rachel May Highlights Aging Budget Victories

Albany, NY - Senator Rachel May (SD-53) is thrilled to announce a 2019-2020 budget that includes the highest supports for aging related issues in decades.

Highlights include:

• A $15 million RECORD increase in targeted funding to address unmet need reported by area agencies on aging (AAAs)
• Maintains $31.183 million in funding for the Community Services to the Elderly program
• Restoration of $250,000 to the Association of Aging for training, education, and technical assistance program for service providers
• Restoration of $250,000 for Lifespan’s statewide elder abuse funding
• Increased funding of $325,000 for naturally occurring retirement communities
• Restoration of $361,500 to numerous respite programs  
• Provision of $2.45 million for individual senior programs throughout the state

“This historic $15 million increase for home-delivered meals, transportation to medical appointments, assistance with daily activities and similar services will help thousands of working and middle class families avoid sending their loved ones to more expensive, taxpayer-funded nursing homes,” said Beth Finkel, AARP New York State Director. “It makes common sense and fiscal sense to support family caregivers in helping their loved ones continue living at home with dignity, as the vast majority wants. AARP thanks Senator May and her colleagues for addressing this growing need for our fast-aging population by fighting to include this funding – initially proposed by Governor Cuomo – and funding for other effective services in the final state budget.”

“Increased funding in services for the elderly is a true win for everyone,” said Senator May. “Seniors will receive the care they need to live with dignity in their homes and age in place. Local agencies providing these crucial services will be able to meet the needs. And this funding saves the state money by reducing the need for people to live in nursing homes. I am thrilled to have been able to help secure this crucial funding.” 
 

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