New York State Office for the Aging: Empowering Older New Yorkers to Age with Independence

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) is New York’s designated statewide advocate for older adults and the agency that develops and administers the State Plan on Aging under the Older Americans Act. Its mission is delivered through a coordinated network of 59 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and hundreds of local partners.

What NYSOFA Does

NYSOFA plans, funds, and coordinates community-based services that help older New Yorkers remain safe, healthy, and engaged in their communities. Services are delivered through local offices for the aging in every county, with one office serving all five New York City boroughs.

Key statewide initiatives include:

• Access to Services via NY Connects: NYSOFA operates NY Connects, New York’s “No Wrong Door” system for information and assistance on long-term services and supports for people of all ages and abilities. In New York City, this program is provided through NYC Aging.
• Evidence-Based Health Programs: The agency funds and promotes programs for chronic disease self-management, falls prevention, and healthy aging, as outlined in the current State Plan on Aging.
• Falls Prevention and Mobility Support: NYSOFA offers practical tools and training through initiatives like falls prevention classes and mobility and activity programs to reduce injury risks and improve independence.
• Cross-Agency Aging Policy: NYSOFA partners with the Department of Health on the Master Plan for Aging, aligning public health and aging goals to support age-friendly communities.

Core Local Programs

Through its network of local offices, NYSOFA provides:

• Benefits and Insurance Counseling to help older adults navigate Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs (via HIICAP and other initiatives).
• Nutrition and Wellness Services, including congregate and home-delivered meals.
• Caregiver Support, respite care, and training resources for family caregivers.
• Elder Abuse Prevention through multidisciplinary teams.
• Transportation and In-Home Services, such as personal care assistance and case management.

These services are detailed in the State Plan on Aging and delivered in coordination with community-based organizations.

Why It Matters

NYSOFA’s approach is prevention-focused and person-centered, aiming to keep older New Yorkers in their homes and communities for as long as possible. By connecting individuals to resources before crises occur, the agency reduces unnecessary institutionalization and improves quality of life. This model emphasizes local delivery, evidence-based programs, and statewide coordination—a combination that has become a national example for aging policy.