New York City seems to be a place solely for the young and young at heart; the partygoers, the business entrepreneurs and those who are always looking for the next project to engage in.
That description wouldn’t at first glance seem to include the elderly, the seniors in the community. But if we glance just briefly over some of the activities being offered to this demographic, we find quite a different picture being depicted.
First of all there are the free entertainments offered. Tomorrow at The Rubin Museum of Art, a tour program for those with dementia (along with their caregivers) will be given at the museum. There are so many individuals – especially seniors – who miss out on cultural opportunities but with this event the elderly can benefit from this incredible museum.
Then there is the seniors’ national fitness program. New York for Seniors – in conjunction with Silver Sneakers – is offering fitness sessions throughout NYC. According to New York for Seniors Director Wayne Jordan:
“We are excited to have Silver Sneakers as a partner! Exercise and simple daily movement are so important for seniors, so having Silver Sneakers on board allows us to bring another important resource to our health and wellness events. The fact that Silver Sneakers work with some of our other partners makes this partnership that much more important. Our partners, Empire Blue Cross and Aetna work with Silver Sneakers to provide on-going fitness programs for their members throughout New York City. We want to be a bridge to encourage more seniors to participate in the Silver Sneakers fitness programs.”
Another endeavor the city of New York is engaging in to benefit seniors is connected to housing. New York State has its first LGBT-friendly affordable housing for seniors. Thanks to the combined efforts of BFC Partners, Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and SAGE. This is the largest development America has seen of this kind and is fitting that it coincides with Stonewall Uprising’s 50th anniversary.