The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) is honoring National Family Caregivers Month by highlighting a wide range of free programs and resources to support the more than four million New Yorkers who provide unpaid care to friends and family.
These caregivers — often spouses, children, friends, or neighbors — play a vital role but frequently go unrecognized, with many not even identifying as caregivers. NYSOFA is working to change that.
“National Family Caregivers Month is a time to celebrate and recognize the people in your life caring for a loved one,” said NYSOFA Director Greg Olsen. “You are not alone. We are here to support you with tools to manage stress, connect with resources, and feel empowered.”
One key tool is the Caregiver Intensity Index (CII), part of NYSOFA’s Any Care Counts NY campaign in partnership with ARCHANGELS. The CII is used statewide to assess caregiver stress levels. So far, more than 30% of caregivers assessed are “in the red,” meaning they’re at crisis-level burden — and over half are also working full time.
Key resources available to New York caregivers:
- New York Caregiver Portal (Trualta): A free platform offering training, education, and resource links for anyone providing unpaid care.
- Working Caregivers Initiative: Launched with the Department of Labor, this initiative includes a statewide survey and tools to help employers support caregiving employees.
- GetSetUp Online Classes: Peer-led sessions help older adults learn caregiving skills, manage stress, and connect with support networks.
In addition, Area Agencies on Aging across the state offer more than 20 core services to help older adults age in place — indirectly reducing the burden on caregivers. These include transportation, home-delivered meals, legal aid, personal care, and social engagement programs.
State leaders are also voicing their support.
“Blessed are the caregivers — for they give hope, dignity, compassion and love,” said State Senator Cordell Cleare.
Assemblymember Rebecca Seawright noted that caregivers often face personal health issues, financial stress, and work-life conflicts, spending an average of $7,200 out-of-pocket each year. “We honor their dedication,” she said.
The NYSOFA caregiver guide video and other support tools are available at aging.ny.gov or by calling NY Connects at 1-800-342-9871.
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