Rochester, New York Print
Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
1/30/2019
Lead Agency: The Aging Alliance
Coalition
Action Plan Download
An action plan is based on the results of community surveys identifying needs within the 8 Domains of Livability that influence the health and quality of life of older adults. While there is flexibility in how a plan is created and what it will do, every action plan includes a statement about what can be achieved, target dates for goal completion, identification of participating organizations and indicators to measure progress. The action plan is an "active" rather than static document. Revisions and amendments are a sign of program improvement and progress.
Action Plan Highlights
Respect and Inclusion
This plan aims to amplify the voice and visibility of older adults. It calls for educational workshops to highlight their value, their inclusion in community planning and decision-making processes, and a review of racial and age equity in city/county contracts. The initiative urges proactive outreach to improve access to services for underserved older adults, embracing a diverse range of disabilities, languages, and cultures in program design. It proposes training for police and first responders on older adults' unique needs, especially those with cognitive impairments. The plan advocates for affordable gathering spaces for diverse elder groups, education for businesses on the economic contributions of older adults, exploration of an age-friendly business designation, volunteer opportunities expansion, and fostering intergenerational contact through recreation centers and new programs with the Monroe County Youth Bureau.Social Participation
This plan advocates for expanded older adult programs at various sites like libraries and YMCAs. It pushes for upgrading city older adult centers, both physically and programmatically, especially in underserved neighborhoods. The plan emphasizes regular feedback from older adults to tailor programming to their needs and preferences. It proposes extending social opportunities, including weekend and evening schedules, and spontaneous outings. To combat isolation, the initiative promotes connecting homebound older adults to online activities or volunteer roles, expanding in-home programming, and creating home-based volunteer opportunities. It also encourages social engagement in congregate housing settings where such programs are currently lacking.Civic Participation and Employment
This plan focuses on older adults in the workforce. It calls for educating local businesses on the value of older adult workers, dispelling myths about them through informative materials, and expanding job training and placement assistance for low-income older adults. It suggests creating an older adult job board linked to other resources and using libraries, older adult centers, and RochesterWorks as workforce development hubs. The initiative fosters partnerships with disability organizations to aid older adults needing workplace accommodations. It promotes the SUNY ATTAIN lab for computer literacy and vocational support, and proposes workshops on online job search tools. Additionally, it advocates for wage increases for low-paying, long-term care and home care workers to bolster the community's caregiver workforce.