State funding to care for the elderly in assisted living centers has not been raised in a dozen years. Now advocates say it's time to increase support for low-income seniors.

For the last 12 years, support from the state for those in senior assisted living facilities has stayed flat, with a stipend at just a little more than $44 a day. Lisa Newcomb of the Empire State Association of Assisted Living says that has to change.

"We have not had an increase in many years, and it is our turn and it is our seniors' turn," said Newcomb, the association's executive director.

Advocates want an increase in what's known as the supplemental security income over the next three years to eventually reach more than $60. This can help pay for low-income seniors to live in comfort and receive services.

"Not only room and board and snacks and housekeeping, but  a very comprehensive set of services to help them with the personal care," Newcomb said.

Newcomb says the state needs to do more to aid assisted living facilities. Officials did not provide more funding when the state's minimum wage increased.
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There's been no adjustment made by government to help off-set at least partially the minimum wage increase," Newcomb said.

Assisted living facilities have struggled with the lack of a funding increase, forcing some facilities to close. Newcomb the main concern is about aiding the elderly who need  support and socialization.

"We want to help them promote their independence as much as possible," Newcomb said.

And advocates are hoping an increase will be in the budget, due to be proposed by the governor early next year.