As a member of the Assembly Committee on Aging, I introduced legislation and led the effort to bring needed reform to our state’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP), and bring it into the 21st century. Now, residents of long-term care facilities and nursing homes will have a greater awareness of their rights as residents, and this program will now be properly funded to ensure increased numbers of volunteer ombudsmen staff.
From prescription drugs, to housing, I’ll always fight to ensure our seniors and other vulnerable populations are well-protected. I’ve long heard stories of seniors traveling to Canada to receive affordable prescription drugs. In one of the wealthiest states in the nation, this is a travesty. New York’s Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program eligibility should be expanded to serve those under age 65, and cover drugs not covered by Medicare Part D. Moreover, our seniors should have the community supports they need to age in place with dignity, and safety. Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities and Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (N/NORCs) are incredible models for how we can achieve this goal at scale, to meet the demand for housing, and help avoid costly placement in care facilities.