Understanding New York’s Master Plan for Aging Stakeholder Advisory Committee

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) jointly oversee the Stakeholder Advisory Committee as part of the state’s Master Plan for Aging (MPA). Established under Executive Order No. 23 in 2022, the committee plays a critical role in ensuring that the voices of older adults, caregivers, service providers, and advocates inform state policy on aging.

The Committee’s Role

The Stakeholder Advisory Committee serves as a key public-facing body in the MPA’s governance structure. Unlike the State Agency Council, which coordinates efforts across government agencies, the committee is designed to bring a broad mix of perspectives to the table—from healthcare, housing, and transportation advocates to representatives of underserved communities. Its mission is to advise NYSOFA and NYSDOH on priorities, gaps, and opportunities in New York’s approach to aging.

How It Works

Committee members meet regularly to review policy proposals, assess emerging needs, and suggest strategies for implementing the MPA’s goals. The committee also plays a role in shaping public engagement, helping design town hall listening sessions and outreach surveys that inform the plan’s recommendations.

From Consultation to Final Plan

The Stakeholder Advisory Committee contributed directly to the final Master Plan for Aging report released in June 2025. Many of the report’s 100-plus proposals—ranging from caregiver support programs to technology access initiatives—reflect feedback gathered through the committee’s consultation process.

Why It Matters

By institutionalizing stakeholder input, New York’s MPA creates a structured pathway for residents and community organizations to influence policy. This collaborative model helps ensure that recommendations are grounded in lived experience, making them more responsive to the realities faced by older New Yorkers.

Takeaway

The Stakeholder Advisory Committee is the MPA’s bridge between state policymakers and the communities they serve. Its role in amplifying diverse perspectives makes it a vital part of New York’s long-term strategy for building an age-friendly state.