New York State has released it’s first-ever Master Plan for Aging (MPA)—a comprehensive roadmap to support the state’s rapidly growing population of older adults. The new plan outlines over 100 actionable proposals aimed at helping residents age with dignity, independence, and full community support.
Why a Master Plan for Aging?
New York is home to 3.2 million adults over age 65, the fourth-largest such population in the U.S. That number is expected to exceed 5.3 million by 2030, with those over 80 growing fastest in several regions. By the end of the decade, older adults will represent 25–30% of the population in most counties.
“The Master Plan for Aging builds on our efforts to empower older adults and advance New York’s status as an age-friendly state,” said Governor Hochul. “Every New Yorker should be able to age with dignity and independence.”
What’s in the plan?
The MPA was developed through a cross-agency collaboration involving the Department of Health, Office for the Aging, and Department of State, along with hundreds of public and private stakeholders. It includes strategies that touch on:
- Housing access and community development
- Support for caregivers and the aging workforce
- Expanded transportation and mobility options
- Access to healthcare and social engagement
- Technology access and elder abuse prevention
It also proposes innovations in service delivery, public-private partnerships, and infrastructure to ensure accessibility and affordability for older adults and retirees.
New funding and next steps
The FY 2026 State Budget includes $45 million in new funding to expand aging services statewide. This includes:
- Home-delivered meals
- In-home aides for daily activities
- Transportation assistance
- Home safety modifications
- Case management for older adults and caregivers
These initiatives aim to reduce waiting lists for services and improve quality of life for older residents aging in place.
A collaborative model for the future
The MPA builds on New York’s distinction as the first AARP-designated Age-Friendly State in the country. A new website—planforaging.ny.gov—provides access to the full report and sortable proposal library, available in multiple languages.
New York State Office for the Aging Director Greg Olsen called the MPA “a historic roadmap” and a “triumph of collective problem-solving.”
“This plan reflects the voice of thousands of New Yorkers and sets the stage for better, more sustainable aging solutions,” added AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel.
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