New York officials are surveying people 60 and older, a first-of-its kind assessment being conducted across the state to determine their views on community safety and health. 

The state Office for the Aging on Wednesday announced it is sending the survey to a randomly selected sample of New Yorkers along with the Association of Aging in New York and the research firm Polco. 

The assessment comes as New York's demographic of people older than age 60 is growing, leading to questions for policymakers over how to address aging issues from health to financial security. 

The second phase of the survey will include all New Yorkers age 60 and older, who are encouraged to participate in an online survey. The survey closes March 30. 

"Older adults are important to their families, communities, and the state’s economy," said Office for the Aging Director Greg Olsen. "Our goal is to help them age successfully and keep their enormous contributions in New York State. We need older adults to provide us with feedback as we build on New York's promise as the first age-friendly state in the nation."  

New York is developing a master plan for aging in the state. The survey is separate from that process, but the results could be used to help provide further information for that plan. 

“Data is imperative in the creation and implementation of policy and funding needs of older New Yorkers," AgingNY Executive Director Becky Preve said. "This survey provides an opportunity for federal, state, and local governments to hear directly from residents on current and future needs to support the older population. We strongly encourage participation in this free, anonymous survey, as the results will be paramount in planning for the future.”