About NYSOFA
The New York State Office for the Aging’s (NYSOFA’s) home and community-based programs provide older persons access to a well-planned, coordinated package of in-home and other supportive services, which are designed to support and supplement informal care. The NYSOFA’s overall goal is to improve access to, and availability of, appropriate and cost-effective non-medical support services for older individuals to maximize their ability to age in their community and avoid higher levels of care and publicly financed care. NYSOFA achieves this through its network of 59 local Offices for the Aging.
There is a local office for the aging in every county in NYS (New York City has one office that covers all 5 boroughs). The dedicated people who work at your local office for the aging have the training, experience and local knowledge to help you access a variety of services and benefits, or can direct you to the appropriate agency or organization for help.
They can help you understand the myriad of community-based support services that can help you, or a family member maintain their independence. A local office for the aging can assist you in applying for and receiving benefits such as heating assistance and help purchasing food, they can assist you in understanding your health insurance (including Medicare and Medicaid) and gaining access to legal services and supports for planning in advance (health care proxy, wills, estate planning). They can link you to congregate and home-delivered meals, nutrition counseling, employment and volunteer opportunities, senior centers, transportation, in-home supports as well as support to family, friends, and neighbors who may be providing assistance to older adults and much more.
You can also receive objective information and assistance in learning and understanding your options for long term services and supports through the NY Connects program.