In the midst of an emergency, it can be difficult to focus time and energy to identify supports and resources. This annotated list provides an overview of some important resources for seniors living in the five boroughs of New York City.
The Department for the Aging (DFTA)
DFTA is the go-to agency for most things relating to older adults in NYC. They provide phone and online resources and can access seniors to databases of city and statewide resources on a range of issues. The easiest way to access these services is through calling 311. However, computer-savvy seniors can visit https://www1.nyc.gov/site/dfta/services/covid-19-resources.page. Here you will find information on such senior-related things as:
COVID-19 testing resources
In-home services
Informational videos for caregivers
Names and locations of social adult day care programs in all 5 boroughs
Names and locations of senior centers in all 5 boroughs
Phone-based education on different aspects of Medicare, known as the HIICAP program
Housing support including information on city rent freeze programs for older adults and for people with disabilities
Free legal assistance for qualifying seniors who are at risk of eviction
Education on Frauds and Fraud-prevention
This publication identifies common scams and frauds and provides a variety of links to online and other resources, including free financial counseling
Volunteers of Legal Service (VOLS) Elderly Project
Seniors aged 60+ on a fixed income with less than $40,000 in assets can turn to VOLS to assist them to drafts wills and other advanced directives for free. Call 347-521-5704 for information or go to https://www.lawhelpny.org/organization/volunteers-of-legal-service-vols-elderly-proj?ref=wyw3P