According to the latest New York State ALICE Report, 50% of senior households fall below the set income threshold for survival. This means that half of households with those aged 65 and older are struggling to afford basic needs including housing, food, transportation and health care. United Way of Long Island and our partner agencies, along with United Way's 2-1-1 Long Island, work to provide seniors with the programs and services they need to help them improve their lives.
Healthy Homes - Aging in Place
As the population ages, certain adaptations to homes need to be made to ensure safety. These changes allow seniors to remain their homes where they are comfortable, ensuring that their living situation is also safe. These changes can include:
- Removing rugs and items on the floor to reduce the risk of tripping
- Grab handles installed in showers and tubs
- Replacing lightbulbs with brighter voltage to improve visibility
- Checking and replacing insulation that is not efficient
- Storing essential kitchen items in lower cabinets and drawers
United Way of Long Island's Healthy Homes intiative can help seniors identify areas of concern, and connect them with trusted contractors.
FamilyWize
United Way of Long Island helps seniors afford their medication by partnering with FamilyWize to help reduce the cost of medication by an average of 40% for those with or without insurance. The free card can be used any time a prescription is picked up from the pharmacy, no registration is required.
Project Warmth
The winter months can be perilous for seniors who are struggling to afford their home heating bills. Lowering the temperature inside can pose a serious health risks to this vulnerable population. Project Warmth provides one-time grant payments directly to oil and utility companies on behalf of residents facing a heating emergency. This program is only open for applications starting in December, and ends when funds are exhausted.
BeReadyLI
When a natural disaster or emergency strikes, there are extra considerations that seniors and their caregivers need to consider in order to prepare and stay safe. BeReadyLI provides resources and tips for seniors and those who care for them including a list of emergency supplies needed for evacuations and preparation plans.