UPDATE: New York City is taking urgent action to support aging residents and their caregivers through a groundbreaking report aimed at addressing the needs of this vital population. The State of Older New Yorkers report, set to be released on Friday, October 27, 2023, highlights the often-overlooked challenges faced by caregivers, revealing alarming statistics about their experiences and needs.
For years, Alexandra Widrick, a mother of three from the Upper East Side, juggled her responsibilities as a parent while caring for her father, Marty Widrick, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. “I felt like I just snapped my fingers and became a caregiver,” Widrick expressed, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of her dual roles. It wasn’t until her father’s passing a year ago that she truly recognized her role as a caregiver.
The report uncovers some startling findings: nearly 30% of caregivers under 60 provide care for both older adults and minors. Additionally, 54% of New Yorkers in this age group dedicate between 15 and over 30 hours per week to caregiving responsibilities. Shockingly, over 40% of older adults who care for others do not self-identify as caregivers.
Commissioner Lorraine Cortes-Vasquez of the New York City Department for the Aging stated, “The number of hours that people are giving towards caregiving surprised me a lot.” She emphasized the importance of recognizing one’s role as a caregiver early on, noting that it can lead to timely support for care recipients, preventing crises.
The findings also shed light on the lack of awareness regarding available services. “You might not know what services and benefits are available for your parent or your aunt or your uncle,” Cortes-Vasquez pointed out. Simple resources, such as transportation services for medical appointments, can make a significant difference in caregivers’ lives, allowing them to maintain their financial stability and work commitments.
This report represents a crucial step toward improving the quality of life for both caregivers and the individuals they support. As New York City continues to grapple with an aging population, the urgency for comprehensive support and resources is greater than ever.
As the State of Older New Yorkers report is released, stakeholders and advocates are urged to pay attention to these findings, which could drive meaningful changes in how services are delivered.
Stay tuned for more updates as the city seeks to implement solutions and address the pressing needs uncovered in this pivotal report. Share this information with anyone who might benefit from understanding the realities of caregiving in New York City.
