Broome County is an aging community. According to the last census, one in every five community residents is a senior. Today’s elderly can expect to live longer than elders did in the past. As people age, they may need support, whether they’re looking for someone to repair a broken step, seeking connections with new friends, requiring help with bathing, or just needing a short break from caring for a spouse with dementia. 

The Office for Aging (OFA) is committed to providing seniors and caregivers with the services they need to remain healthy and independent. Mission Meltaway, the Caregiver Resource Center, the Home Repair Program and the OFA mini-bus are all programs that exist today because seniors and caregivers spoke up about their needs.

However, the needs of our elders are evolving; what was needed yesterday may not meet today’s needs. In order to plan for services, OFA needs to hear from seniors and caregivers.   

The Office for Aging is currently updating its Plan for Services to determine what services to provide during the coming years.  We are seeking input from seniors and caregivers on their needs.  We are asking you to share what you see as the issues and concerns facing Broome County seniors. Your participation takes only a little time but can have a major impact.

Here are some questions we are asking:

• What needs do you see for yourself, for other Broome County seniors or for their caregivers?
• What new services would you like to see the community offer to seniors and caregivers to help meet these needs? 
• What existing services should the community continue to provide for seniors and caregivers?  What services are important to you and to others you know?

The information you provide, will help us decide what steps to take to ensure Broome County remains a community for a lifetime for all residents.

To share your comments, you can call Neil Eldred at 778-2411 or send an email to ofa@co.broome.ny.us.  You can also send a letter to the following address: Broome County Office for Aging, Neil Eldred, PO Box 1766, Binghamton, NY 13902. You can be sure that OFA will consider your suggestions while keeping your name confidential.