Office of the Brooklyn Borough President and The New York Academy of Medicine Release Recommendations for an Age-inclusive Brooklyn

From Better Housing Options to Safer Sidewalks and Intersections, Age-friendly Brooklyn Task Force Outlines 10 Steps the City Can Take to Facilitate Improved Health, Happiness, and Opportunities for Older Adults Across the Borough

Brooklyn is Home to 352,000 Adults Ages 65 and Older

  1. Housing: Expand and promote housing options for older adults, including supportive housing, grandparent housing, and home sharing options. 
  2. Outdoor Spaces: Ensure safe, clean, and well-maintained sidewalks and safe, well-lit intersections in neighborhoods. 
  3. Transportation: Provide training to MTA bus drivers and rideshare drivers on working with older riders and/or riders with disabilities. 
  4. Access to Information: Expand access to information about news, events, health services, and public benefits. 
  5. Digital Access: Increase digital accessibility and literacy for older adults, including an expansion of computer and technology classes. 
  6. Language Access: Expand language access for mental health services. 
  7. Expanded Partnerships: Establish opportunities for private and public partnerships, including “Adopt-an-Older-Adult Center” programs. 
  8. Employment: Increase employment opportunities that fit the diverse vocational needs of older adults. 
  9. Arts & Culture: Increase opportunities and funding for programming at cultural institutions, community centers and spaces, and faith-based organizations. 
  10. Volunteerism: Cultivate and promote opportunities for volunteerism.