NYC Department for the Aging Embarks On “Modernization” of Senior Services

The NYC Department for the Aging (DFTA) is undergoing a restructuring process to “modernize” community-based aging services - http://www.nyc.gov/html/dfta/html/about/modernization.shtml CSCS has concerns with the changes discussed in the meals-on-wheels and senior center concept papers found on DFTA’s website. We believe that the administration is redefining community-based services in local neighborhoods, not addressing the diversity of older New Yorkers and is moving too quickly to implement its plans with no additional funds, and in fact, with budget cuts.

We have worked with DFTA and the administration to have meaningful input based on the expertise of CSCS staff and its members, but have not successfully had the administration change both the timeline of implementing the restructuring and concerns about the restructuring itself. CSCS has asked for a slowing down of the timeline in order to allow for substantive changes to the plans to be made.

Further information on our concerns can be found at www.cscs-ny.org on the home page and under the “advocacy” sidebar. A recent article outlining our concerns can be found on the Gotham Gazette http://www.gothamgazette.com/article/fea/20080317/202/2465

Welcome to the Power of Aging

The Council of Senior Centers and Services (CSCS) http://www.cscs-ny.org/ is proud to announce the launch of its blog "The Power of Aging." As the numbers of older adults grow, so should their voices. In keeping with the mission of CSCS, this blog will discuss issues around assisting older New Yorkers to age in place in their homes and communities with dignity. Aging has changed over recent decades bringing with it opportunities and challenges. It is our intention to use this blog as a platform to share information and viewpoints. We welcome your participation.

Bobbie Sackman, CSCS Director of Public Policy, will be managing the blog.