In 2018, the Governor of New York signed Executive Order-190 (EO-190) which focuses on the implementation of Age-Friendly principles and health across all policies through State Agencies and Departments. EO-190 aims to enhance the quality of life for older adults by promoting age-friendly policy, programming and frameworks. By recognizing the growing population of older adults and their contributions to society, this order emphasizes the need for supportive communities which enable them to remain independently in their homes and communities as active participants. Serving as the basis for age-friendly policy and programming in New York State, EO-190 is responsible for driving change in creation of inclusive initiatives and communities for the older adult population.
The Governor of New York (2022) signed Executive Order 23 (EO-23) which establishes the New York State Master Plan for Aging (MPA). EO-23 expands upon the mandate set forth in EO-190 by calling for the development of a comprehensive, cross-sector plan to prepare for the aging demographic in New York State. EO-23 recognizes the long-term planning required to breakdown policy silos. EO-23 formalizes and broadens the scope of EO-190 by requiring a cohesive Master Plan that encompasses housing, transportation, healthcare, caregiving and social participation.
The aging population 60 plus continues to be the fastest growing segment of the population, resulting in the increased need for age-friendly policies. Similar to the rest of the United States, the population in New York State’s 62 counties is growing older. In 2025, the population of individuals age 60 and over was projected to account for 25% of all people in 33 counties and 30% of people in 18 counties (NYSOFA, 2021). Approximately 82% of New York State’s counties will see a significant portion of their populations aged 60 plus by the end of this year.
New York State Office for the Aging. (2021). Annual Report 2021. https://aging.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2022/07/2021-annual-report.pdf