New York State communities are growing significantly older as older adults are increasingly staying integrated in their neighborhoods. With baby boomers reaching retirement age in large numbers, advances in medical care correlating with increasing longevity, and aging public policy shifting toward a focus on enabling seniors to remain in their homes, rather than undergo costly institutionalization, New York State's communities are experiencing a dynamic change. This evolution has required changes in the way we think of communities and how we meet their needs. However, while many people have a strong concept of "kid friendly" communities when they are looking to start families, there has been less progress to encourage the development of senior friendly communities.

The Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) and Neighborhood NORC programs have been important in recognizing that neighborhoods, and buildings, can naturally age over time as residents become older. These communities began when individuals were younger, but as they grow older, an individual's needs change while their desire to stay a part of their community does not. Another step towards more senior friendly communities is the Livable New York Initiative. The initiative is intended to help local leaders, residents, officials, and organizations come together to create neighborhoods that reflect the evolving needs and preferences of all their residents.

This hearing will examine the different ways that communities can develop and evolve as well as efforts of the State Office for the Aging, local governments, and community-based organizations to encourage senior-friendly communities.

Oral testimony will be limited to five minutes. Time limits will be strictly enforced. Ten copies of any prepared testimony should be submitted at the hearing registration desk. The Committee would appreciate advance receipt of prepared statements. Written testimony will also be accepted and may be sent to the contact persons listed on the reply form. In order to publicize the hearing further, please inform interested parties of the Committee's interest in receiving written testimony from all sources.

In order to meet the needs of those who may have a disability, the Assembly, in accordance with their policy of non-discrimination on the basis of disability, as well as the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), has made its facilities and services available to all individuals with disabilities. For individuals with disabilities, accommodations will be provided, upon reasonable request, to afford such individuals access and admission to Senate and Assembly facilities and activities.

Joan Millman
Member of Assembly
Chair
Committee on Aging

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Persons interested in presenting testimony at the public hearing on Aging Neighborhoods and the Evolution of Senior-Friendly Communities to be held on December 4, 2013, or who wish to submit written testimony only, are requested to complete and return this reply form to: