Broome County OFA

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Successful Aging - Archived Article
Office for Aging Plan for Services

The goal of the Broome County Office for Aging is to help Broome County elders live independent, healthy and fulfilling lives. Last year, we provided services for approximately 13,600 seniors. Some services and programs were provided directly by Office for Aging, while many others were made possible by cooperating with and contracting with other community agencies.

To be sure that services meet the needs of Broome County seniors, we develop and update our plan each year. Office for Aging relies on input from the community in order to design programs and services that best meet the needs of our older population.

Two years ago, a series of focus groups with seniors, and a survey of community service planners were conducted to help identify the primary issues affecting seniors. While there were numerous issues identified, the needs most frequently mentioned were:
  1. More community education about the services that are available
  2. More education about housing options - from finding help with home repairs to understanding all of the levels of housing available
  3. More transportation options
  4. Affordable health insurance and prescriptions
  5. More home care, especially affordable alternatives
  6. More activities to avoid isolation and stay connected to the community
  7. More opportunities to participate in health and wellness activities and seminars
During last year's plan update, OFA identified an 8th item: a growing need to support unpaid caregivers of the elderly-family and friends who help older people remain as independent as possible.

Over the last two years, community agencies have been responding to these issues. While the needs identified in each area have not been fully resolved, action has been taken in every area. Educational events, increased access to transportation, and many health and wellness classes have been developed. Resources have been made available to provide education, support, and respite for caregivers.

What issues do you think are important to Broome County's seniors? Do the items listed above represent the most important issues, or are there other needs you would like to see addressed?

You are invited to share your thoughts and suggestions about services that enhance quality of life for seniors and those who care for them.

Office for Aging will be holding a public hearing on October 23, 2001 at 1:30 p.m. at the Johnson City Senior Community Center. This hearing is an opportunity for individuals and agencies to comment on the needs and services affecting seniors who reside in Broome County.

All interested individuals are invited to attend the hearing and speak about the services we provide, the needs that they see, and any gaps in service the Office for Aging should address.

Anyone wishing to speak at the hearing is encouraged, but not required, to call the Office for Aging at 607.778.2411 to make a reservation. Copies of the Draft Plan for Services 2002-2004 will be available at the hearing. Call the OFA should you wish to view the document prior to the hearing. Written comment can be submitted for those who wish to comment but are unable to attend. Letters to be read at the hearing may be forwarded to:

Broome County Office for Aging
PO Box 1766
Binghamton NY 13902