Florence Clemmons, 61, is a wife and mother, whose son recently graduated from college.

“I'm really active in the community,” said Clemmons. “I'm a hockey mom. I run a hockey program. So I like to stay active.”

She's also a caregiver, for her mom, who is in her 80s.

What You Need To Know

  • New York State is in the process of writing and updating a "Master Plan for Aging"
  • The next phase of the process includes a public comment period following a series of public hearings
  • Comment closes June 14, as the final plan is due August 1

"And so, I'm having to flip the switch here a little bit more and providing her with some additional support because she does live in her own home," said Clemmons.

Clemmons was one of many who attended a recent community forum to hear more about the state's "Master Plan for Aging", a four-year blueprint of sorts, required by the federal government, detailing key services for older adults.

"Helps hold people accountable. Knowing that these resources are out here, I just need to start really leaning in more on those resources," said Clemmons.

The public hearing recently held in Rochester was one of many across the state, designed to explain the plan to the community and gather feedback as well as input.

The plan also outlines focus areas important to the federal government like COVID recovery and expansion of community services.

"To educate people and give them context of all that we do and let them know the services we provide," said Rose Golden, deputy director, New York State Office for Aging.

Golden also explained the results of a community survey that garnered more than 27,000 responses.

With that, state leaders say they can tweak or expand the plan.

"Because they know what's going on, on the ground. And they experience everyday what older adults are experiencing," said Golden.

Like Clemmons, who's also the community based strategies director for Foodlink, serving a 10-county area advocating for older Americans, making sure the master plan addresses all their needs, but especially food insecurity.

"We know this is something that our seniors really need. Something to use to help guide, you know, the work we're doing as well," said Clemmons.

A draft of the plan is due July 1, while the final version is due August 1.

State leaders say the comment period on the plan ends on June 14.

If you or someone you know wants to read the plan or comment on it, click here.