Imagine a community center buzzing with activity. Older adults from all walks of life in community together, learning new skills, accessing vital services, and sharing stories over a steaming lunch. This isn’t a scene from a retirement brochure; it’s the reality of many older adult centers in New York City. But this very reality is under threat.

Proposed budget cuts are slashing funding for essential services like these, jeopardizing the well-being of the city’s rapidly growing older adult population. 

A Swelling Population and a Shrinking Budget

The statistics are stark. In New York City alone, the population of residents aged 65 and over is over 20% and is expected to balloon by 40% by 2040. This demographic shift demands a robust network of support services, in a system that needs more investment just to maintain what it already provides. The already underfunded Department for the Aging (DFTA) needs an investment of approximately $60 million to keep older adult centers open, homebound older adults fed, and critical service support available. Yet, facing budget constraints, Mayor Adams’ recent proposal cuts a staggering $72 million+ from the DFTA budget, adding to the $20 million cut from the previous year.

These cuts threaten the very lifeline many older adults depend on. Older adult centers provide not just hot meals, but social connection, mental stimulation, and access to critical resources. Imagine the isolation a homebound older adult might face without meals-on-wheels or the despair a recently widowed person might feel without the social connection a center offers. 

“All older adults should be alarmed by the Mayor’s proposed cuts to aging services. NYC Aging receives less than 1 percent of the city budget, despite 20 percent of residents being 65 or older. Next year, NYC Aging’s budget will be $73 million less than in fiscal year 2025, even though the city’s Independent Budget Office projects an extra $2.2 billion in available funds. These cuts could close up to 60 older adult centers’ vital community hubs providing essential services, like meals, for our rapidly aging population. New Yorkers 50-plus helped build our city but have been ignored for too long. We were proud to stand with LiveOn NY and hundreds of advocates at City Hall to oppose these ageist cuts to critical aging services,” says Beth Finkel, State Director of AARP New York

Budget cuts are not limited to DFTA alone; the city’s library system budget, which also provides essential services to many of the city’s aging population, is on the chopping block too. 

Beyond Bingo: The Power of Creative Aging

The impact goes beyond basic needs. Many older adult centers offer creative aging programs – art classes, dance workshops, writing groups – that have a profound impact on well-being. Studies show that engaging in creative activities can improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and combat feelings of loneliness. For many older adults, these programs can be a lifeline, fostering a sense of purpose and joy. When resources are removed for basic support, there is certainly little left for these additional services that are proven to enhance quality of life. While Lifetime Arts works across the country, New York City is our hometown, and we’ve been partnering with older adult centers here for many years on creative aging programs. Many of our training staff have spent countless hours teaching in these community spaces. We know first-hand how important these centers are to older adults, and the wider NYC community. 

A Fight for All Our Futures

The fight for robust older adult services isn’t just about protecting our elders; it’s about safeguarding our future. Today, it’s New York City, but tomorrow, it could be your community. An aging population is a reality we all face, and we need to invest in solutions now.

Here’s what you can do:

• Raise awareness: Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about the importance of older adult services. Share stories about the impact of older adult centers and creative aging programs.
• Contact your local representatives: Do you live in New York City? This budget is just a proposal. Let your council member know you oppose cuts to senior services and advocate for increased funding for the DFTA, that will support essential services and ensure the buildings they are in remain in good conduction. 
• Support advocacy groups: Organizations like LiveOn NY are at the forefront of the fight for aging services. Visit their website to learn more about how to get involved. 

By working together, we can ensure a future where we all are valued, supported, and have the opportunity to thrive as we age.