New Report Highlights Support Needs for Aging New Yorkers and Caregivers

The State of Older New Yorkers Report

• 📊 A new, first-of-its-kind survey, the "State of Older New Yorkers" report, aims to identify ways to support aging residents and their caregivers.
• 💡 The report surveyed older adults and their caregivers directly, a departure from previous surveys that focused only on researchers.

Caregiver Experiences and Identification

• 🎭 Many individuals, like Alexandra Widrich, find themselves unexpectedly becoming caregivers for aging parents while also managing family and careers.
• ⚠️ Over 40% of older adults who care for others did not self-identify as caregivers, highlighting a need for better awareness and support.
• ⏰ The survey revealed that nearly 30% of caregivers under 60 care for both an older adult and a minor.

Time Commitment and Support Services

• ⏳ 54% of New Yorkers under 60 reported spending between 15 and over 30 hours per week on caregiving responsibilities.
• 🤝 Identifying as a caregiver earlier can lead to accessing support services sooner, potentially preventing crises.
• 🚗 Services such as transportation for doctor's appointments can alleviate the burden on caregivers, allowing them to manage work and caregiving responsibilities more effectively.