Experiences early in life have a cumulative impact on how successfully a person ages. The MPA offers a holistic and proactive focus, addressing needs and providing supports for individuals from childhood to mid-life to older age across programs, services, and policies.
New York ranks fourth in the nation in the number of individuals aged 60 and over, at 4.8 million. By 2030, this population is expected to reach 5.3 million. Also by 2030, over 51 counties will have a population with 25% of individuals being aged 60 and older. This highly valued population contributes substantially to the economic, social, and cultural vibrancy of our state. Such contributions are a source of strength that New York proactively embraces through supportive policies in the MPA. For instance:
- Approximately 892,000 individuals age 60 and over contribute 474 million hours of service at an economic value of $13.2 billion.
- 64% of older adults (60+) own their own homes and have no mortgage, contributing to the state and local tax base.
- Older adults also contribute directly to New York’s long term care system. There are 4.1 million caregivers in New York State, and their average age is 64. Their caregiving – for people of all ages – is valued at $32 billion, if paid at the market rate.
Find more of this data on NYS Office for the Aging’s website.