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older and younger woman walking together with arms around each other text over the photo "Aging Together in New York"

A Statewide Initiative Addressing Social Isolation Among Older Adults

Aging presents a unique stage of life - one that has not been adequately explored.  As life expectancy grows, our society has not kept up with the potential of an added generation of experience - potentially decades beyond age sixty-five.   While projected longevity and increased quality of life presents opportunities, there are challenges that need attention now.  

 

As we age, we are more likely to live alone and can face barriers to community and connection.  Leaving work, the deaths of friends and loved ones, stopping driving, hearing and vision challenges all can isolate older adults from sources of community.  Social isolation alone doesn’t guarantee loneliness, but it is a significant risk factor.

 

Even before COVID-19, loneliness among older adults represented a serious threat to wellbeing – as dangerous as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day.  The systems and resources that exist to serve older adults have been challenged to overcome a lack of in-person connection.

 

Older adults need to know what resources exist to help them connect with community and they deserve stories that authentically reflect their lived experience. Public media is uniquely positioned to serve older adults, their families and loved ones.

ABOUT

 

Working in collaboration with the New York State Office for the Aging, Buffalo Toronto Public Media is proud to collaborate with public media stations across New York state on a multi-platform project addressing social isolation among older adults through news coverage, shared personal stories, modeling healthy relationships, building community, and providing resources for seniors that reduce isolation and build resiliency.

Aging Together in New York will draw attention to the value of older adults in our communities and provide resources to help seniors build resilience and combat social isolation. Public broadcasters across the state will reach older adults on broadcast television and radio, online, and at in-person events with new documentaries, short films, and other engaging content.

Tune in to WNED PBS during the week of May 15-21, 2023 for special programming addressing senior isolation, loneliness, and depression.

Aging Together in New York brings together public media across the state to focus on a single issue across multiple platforms—broadcast television, radio, podcasts, online streaming, social media, live events, and more. 

Aging Together in New York programming will continue to be produced and aired throughout 2023 and 2024 and available to stream.  

WATCH

Aging Together in New York | Carol Speser

Carol Speser talks about the difference between solitude and loneliness. As a self-identifying community organizer and lifelong LGBTQ+ activist, Carol continues to find joy and community in her life's work, even if it is at a slower pace.

Producer - Lukia Costello
Principal Photography - Bailey Critoph
Editing and Sound Design - Lukia Costello

Funding for Aging Together was provided in part by the New York State Education Department.

Find out more about senior isolation and the Aging Together in New York initiative. Visit https://www.wned.org/aging-together-in-ny/

Visit www.wned.org for more original productions from WNED PBS.

This program and channel are made possible by viewers like you. You can support Buffalo Toronto Public Media by making a donation. Thank you! To donate, visit https://www.wnedmembers.org/alleg/WebModule/Donate.aspx?P=WEBYT1&PAGETYPE=PLG&CHECK=d7c8elR8b49PNdBk7doSeRiCxtaFReuS

Personal Stories
1 / 10 Videos
Aging Together in New York | Carol Speser
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Carol Speser
Aging Together in New York | Hkawng
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Hkawng
Aging Together in New York | Vickie Rubin
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Vickie Rubin
Aging Together in New York | Arrie Moore
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Arrie Moore
Aging Together in New York | Michael Costello
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Michael Costello
Aging Together in New York | Debbera
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Debbera
Aging Together in New York | Stratton
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Stratton
Aging Together in New York | Steve
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Steve
Aging Together in New York | Maria
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in New York | Maria
Aging Together in NY | Sylvia
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Aging Together in NY | Sylvia
Young@Heart's 40th Anniversary Show

An entertainment group created by and for the elderly, Young @ Heart Chorus is particularly noted for their unconventional covers of rock, punk, and other modern pop music songs. Enjoy our first-ever full-length concert film, filmed at the end of 2022 at the Academy of Music Theatre in Northampton, MA.

Videos and coverage across PBS
1 / 14 Videos
Young@Heart's 40th Anniversary Show
youngatheart chorus
Young@Heart's 40th Anniversary Show
Alzheimer's: What You Can Do
Alzheimer's: What You Can Do
Alzheimer's: What You Can Do
I'll Find a Way or Make One - A Rosie Story
I’ll Find a Way or Make One – A Rosie Story
I'll Find a Way or Make One - A Rosie Story
Lives Well Lived
Lives Well Lived
Lives Well Lived
A Brief But Spectacular take on memory loss, healthy aging
PBS NewsHour
A Brief But Spectacular take on memory loss, healthy aging
Sages of Aging
Sages of Aging
Sages of Aging
57 (The Average Age of the American Farmer)
The Lexicon of Sustainability
57 (The Average Age of the American Farmer)
The Great Age Reboot
The Great Age Reboot
The Great Age Reboot
My Health Counts! Partnering with Your Doctor
WNED PBS Health and Wellness
My Health Counts! Partnering with Your Doctor
My Health Counts! Fostering Self-Management
WNED PBS Health and Wellness
My Health Counts! Fostering Self-Management
Life Journeys: You Are A Caregiver
WNED PBS Health and Wellness
Life Journeys: You Are A Caregiver
Life Journeys: Caregiver Support
WNED PBS Health and Wellness
Life Journeys: Caregiver Support
Life Journeys: Emergency Preparedness
WNED PBS Health and Wellness
Life Journeys: Emergency Preparedness
Life Journeys: A Day in the Life of a Caregiver
WNED PBS Health and Wellness
Life Journeys: A Day in the Life of a Caregiver

RESOURCES

NY Connects

NY Connects is your trusted place to go for free, unbiased information about long term services and support in New York State for people of all ages or with any type of disability. NY Connects staff can help link you to long term services and supports, such as:

- Basic Needs

- Health Care Services

- Community Engagement

- Legal and Government Services

- Income Support

NY Connects' mission is to help you or your loved ones live as independently as you wish to while meeting your medical, social, and functional needs that arise from aging or disability.  

Learn more: https://www.nyconnects.ny.gov/

New York State Support Services

New York State Office for the Aging 
https://aging.ny.gov/  

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) home and community programs provide older adults with access to supportive services designed to support and supplement informal care. NYSOFA’s goal is to improve access to, and availability of, appropriate services for older individuals. A full list of programs, services, and assistance can be found on their website or by contacting 1-844-697-6321 or NYSOFA@aging.ny.gov  

County Support Services

Erie County 

 

Erie County Senior Services 
https://www3.erie.gov/seniorservices/https://www3.erie.gov/seniorservices/  

The Department of Senior Services of Erie County promotes the well-being of older adults through coordinated and cost-effective services that enhance independence, dignity, and the quality of life.  

Erie County Senior Services | Guide to Services  
https://www3.erie.gov/seniorservices/guide-services 

There are several agencies in Erie County that help older adults and Erie County has created a guide to assist individuals and families in finding the particular service needed.  

Erie County NY Connects 
http://www.erie.gov/nyconnects  

Erie County NY Connects is your “one-stop” for information about long-term care people who live in Erie County.  For free, impartial information call us at (716) 858-8526 (1-800-396-2705 toll free long distance), via email nyconnects@erie.gov or online

211 WNY 
https://www.211wny.org/  

211 WNY is a free, confidential link to health and human services with assistance offered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  

Niagara County

 

Niagara County Office of the Aging 
https://www.niagaracounty.com/departments/a-f/aging/index.php  

The Niagara County Office for the Aging (OFA) brings together programs, services, and support facilities which help older adults maintain independence whenever possible.  

Niagara County Office of the Aging Community Partner List  
https://www.niagaracounty.com/departments/a-f/aging/community_partners.php  

Niagara County Office of the Aging Resource Guides 
https://www.niagaracounty.com/departments/a-f/aging/resource_guides/index.php  

Community Resource Guide for Niagara County 
https://cms5.revize.com/revize/niagaracounty/Document_center/Department/A%20-F/Aging/Resource%20Guides/Community%20Resource%20Guide%20052021.pdf  

Cattaraugus County

 

Cattaraugus County Department of the Aging 
https://www.cattco.org/aging  

The Cattaraugus County Department of the Aging provides needed services to country residents who are age 60 or older. The county’s website acts as a guide to the services available including access services, housing, caregiver support, and other specialized services.  

Cattaraugus County Department of the Aging | Aging Services Guide 
https://www.cattco.org/aging/services  

Cattaraugus County Department of the Aging Helpful Link Guide 

https://www.cattco.org/aging/helpful-links  

The Seneca Nation Area Office of the Aging (SNI AOA) 
https://sni.org/community-services/aoa/  

The SNI AOA provides services and support for Elders and caregivers, including meal services, transportation, counseling, events, and activities. 

Chautauqua County

 

Chautauqua County Office for the Aging 
https://chqgov.com/office-aging/Office-for-the-Aging  

The Chautauqua County Office for the Aging provides programs and services to seniors and their families to promote independence, health and wellness in a safe and secure environment.  

Chautauqua County Office of the Aging | Aging Services Handbook 
https://chqgov.com/sites/default/files/document-files/2019-09/Aging%20Services%20Handbook.pdf   

Genesee County

 

Genesee County Office for the Aging 
https://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/office_for_the_aging/index.php  

The Genesee County Office for the Aging offers a variety of programs and services to all county residents who are age 60 and over. The county website allows you to view the programs and services offered.  

The Genesee County Reach Out Directory 
https://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/office_for_the_aging/resource_directory.php  

Orleans County

 

Orleans County Office for the Aging 
https://orleanscountyny.com/departments/office_for_the_aging/index.php  

Orleans County Office for the Aging Resource Links 
https://orleanscountyny.com/departments/office_for_the_aging/resources.php  

 

Ontario, Canada

 

Programs and Services for Seniors | Service Canada  
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/campaigns/seniors.html?utm_campaign=not-applicable&utm_medium=vanity-url&utm_source=canada-ca_seniors  

Learn about the programs, services, and information available for seniors including nutrition, wellness, and more.  

Ontario | A Guide to Programs and Services for Seniors 
https://www.ontario.ca/document/guide-programs-and-services-seniors  

Find information on resources available for seniors in Ontario, including tax credits, health, caregiving, housing, transportation and staying safe.  

 

Resources for Caregivers

New York State Office for the Aging | Caring for a Loved One 
https://aging.ny.gov/programs/caring-loved-one  

NYSOFA has developed a Caregiver’s Guide video to help individuals learn more about resources thatcan help support them in the caregiver role. NYSOFA’s caregiver webpage includes resources and digital supports for caregivers and families.  

211 Caregiver Project 
https://www.211wny.org/provider/11349/  

The 211 Caregiver Project is a caregiver navigation program that provides crisis counseling, care coordination, needs assessment, linkage to community services, education, advocacy efforts, and specialized information and referrals.  

Genesee County Caregiver Support Services 
https://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/office_for_the_aging/caregiver_support_services.php  

The Genesee County Office for the Aging offers several services that can help you care for your loved one. Please see the Caregiver Section in the Document Libraryfor some interesting articles pertaining to Caregivers. 

Kinship Caregiver Program- Olean 
https://www.211wny.org/provider/5940/#:~:text=Provides%20support%20to%20relative%20caregivers,other%20community%20organizations%20and%20services.  

This program provides support to relative caregivers using a family system approach. Families are linked to access existing programs and resources as well as forming new relationships with various community organizations in Cattaraugus County. 

SPECIAL PROGRAMMING MAY 15 - 21

Monday, May 15

AGING TOGETHeR IN NYLives Well Lived | Preview

People aged 75-100 reveal their secrets and insights for living a meaningful life. Watch Monday, May 15 at 1am on WNED PBS.

AGING TOGETHeR IN NYDeath is But a Dream | Preview

This program follows a group of New York medical researchers as they attempt to re-frame the dying process by analyzing the dreams of dying patients. Watch Monday, May 15 at 2am on WNED PBS

Aging Together in NY

The Last Chapter | Preview

The Last Chapter examines the benefits of planning for end-of-life care through interviews with a diverse collection of subjects, including elderly hospice patients, parents of a child battling a rare metabolic bone disease, a young father of three suffering from liver and colon cancer, and even an unlikely hospice "survivor," a 45-year-old mother with congestive heart failure. Throughout, doctors from several Pittsburgh-area hospitals stress the importance of communication regarding end-of-life decision-making. These difficult, but necessary conversations can help patients navigate — and even dictate — their end-of-life scenarios. The Last Chapter also follows nurses, hospice-care providers and an interfaith chaplain who tend to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of terminally ill patients. Watch Monday, May 15 at 3am on WNED PBS.

Aging Together in NYAlzheimer's: What You Can Do | Preview

The film explores how our daily habits can have dramatic effects over time. Watch Monday, May 15 at 4am.

Aging Together in NYYoung@Heart's 40th Anniversary Show | Preview

Meet the world’s oldest rockers: the Young@Heart Chorus! They celebrate their 40th anniversary live in their hometown of Northampton, MA, paying tribute to members who have passed with songs by Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Sonic Youth, and more. Watch Monday, May 15 at 9pm on WNED PBS. 
 

AGING TOGETHeR IN NYLives Well Lived | Preview

People aged 75-100 reveal their secrets and insights for living a meaningful life. Watch Monday, May 15 at 10pm on WNED PBS.

Friday, May 19

Aging Together in NYYoung@Heart: Strong in Song 

Meet the world’s oldest rockers: the Young@Heart Chorus! They celebrate their 40th anniversary live in their hometown of Northampton, MA, paying tribute to members who have passed with songs by Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Sonic Youth, and more. Watch Monday, May 15 at 9pm on WNED PBS. Watch Friday, May 19 at 9pm on WNED PBS.
 

Aging Together in NYI'll Find a Way or Make One — A Rosie Story | Preview

Viola Hippert grew up a child of Serbian immigrants in the shadow of the Bethlehem Steel plant in Lackawanna, New York. Her family’s strong work ethic laid the groundwork for Vi to become a Rosie the Riveter at Bell Aircraft Corporation during WWII. Now in her late 90s, Vi reflects on her life and has no plan to slow down. Watch Friday, May 19 at 9:30pm on WNED PBS.

Aging Together in NYArt + Medicine: Healthy Aging | Preview

Through an artistic lens, Art + Medicine: Healthy Aging looks at issues around aging with co-hosts Drs. Jon Hallberg and Tseganesh Seleameab. The hour-long program focuses on the four M's framework: "Mobility," "Mentation" (or more commonly thought of as mood and memory), "Medication" and "what Matters" to older adults. The program offers viewers insight into how art and medicine can help promote healthy aging and improve one’s quality of life. Watch Friday, May 19 at 10pm on WNED PBS.

Saturday, May 20

episode
Aging Together in NYAging Matters : Aging & the Workplace | Preview

It is estimated that 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 every day in the United States—a trend that will continue for the next decade. The aging of America's population will impact every aspect of our lives, including our professional careers. Aging Matters: Age & the Workplace explores what the workforce of tomorrow will look like and what employers need to do now to adapt and prepare for the future. Hosted by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Kathy Mattea, the 30-minute program shows industries facing labor and knowledge shortages and also profiles seniors who are still doing remarkable (and surprising) work. Watch Saturday, May 20 at 3pm on WNED PBS.

Aging Together in NYAging Matters: Aging With Pride | Preview

LGBTQIA elders face unique social, economic, and health challenges. Organizations and individuals across the country are working to address issues such as discrimination and loneliness. AgingMatters: Aging with Pride sheds light on what many in the Stonewall Generation have had to endure and fight for in the hopes of enacting positive change for the community in the ongoing pursuit of equality. Watch Saturday, May 20 at 3:30pm on WNED PBS.

Aging Together in NYAging Matters: Companionship & Intimacy | Preview

Aging Matters: Companionship & Intimacy, hosted by Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Kathy Mattea, explores the benefits and challenges of companionship and intimacy as we age. The 30-minute documentary examines a spectrum of relationship types, ranging from the emotional connection of deep friendship to fulfilling romantic partnership, as well as how they impact health and wellbeing. Watch Saturday, May 20 at 4pm on WNED PBS.

Aging Together in NYAging Matters: Loneliness & Isolation | Preview

Hosted by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Kathy Mattea, this edition of Aging Matters explores the characteristics and health implications of social isolation and loneliness on the elderly. The 30-minute documentary features the stories of older adults who have experienced feeling detached from the wider community due to factors like the loss of a spouse, the stresses of caregiving, illness or loss of mobility. Finally, Aging Matters: Loneliness & Isolation looks at the innovative ways that social ties and community can be created to prevent social withdrawal. Saturday, May 20 at 4:30pm on WNED PBS.

Aging TogetheR in NYI Remember Better When I Paint | Preview

Narrated by screen legend Olivia de Havilland, I Remember Better When I Paint reveals the ways day-care centers, nursing homes and assisted-living facilities are employing creative therapies to treat Alzheimer's patients. Therapeutic art activities, some experts suggest, can strengthen patients' still-vibrant imaginations, helping to reawaken their sense of personality, identity and dignity. The informative documentary offers pivotal new insights about the transformative power of drawing, painting, music, and museum visits for those living with Alzheimer's and related memory disorders. Through personal stories and interviews with noted physicians, the film explores the benefits of this approach, including improved quality of life for the patient and a restored dialogue with their caregivers.  Watch Saturday, May 20 at 5pm on WNED PBS.

Sunday, May 21

Aging Together in NYMusic for Life: The Story of New Horizons | Preview

Marion found respite during a time of trouble. George found his life partner. Marjorie found something she'd thought she'd lost forever. They all found more than they bargained for when they joined the New Horizons Music Program, a program for senior musicians whose skills range from novice to seasoned. Marion, George, Marjorie and others share how they found a new connection to music and so much more in the hour-long documentary, Music for Life: The Story of New Horizons. What started as a 30-member band in Rochester, New York more than 20 years ago has grown to a program that includes 10,000 musicians in 215 New Horizons bands across the United States, as well as Canada, Ireland, Australia, and several other countries. The New Horizons program defies the notion that "retirement means sitting on your sofa all day, watching television, and waiting to die." Watch Sunday, May 21 at 2pm on WNED PBS.

Aging Together in NYYoung@Heart's 40th Anniversary Show | Preview

Meet the world’s oldest rockers: the Young@Heart Chorus! They celebrate their 40th anniversary live in their hometown of Northampton, MA, paying tribute to members who have passed with songs by Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Sonic Youth, and more. Watch Sunday, May 21 at 3pm on WNED PBS. 
 

VIRTUAL EVENT

Tuesday, May 9 at 7pm | Free Virtual Screening Event

Young at Heart: Empowering Older Adults

Join public media stations across New York State on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 7pm for Young at Heart: Empowering Older Adults. Enjoy an excerpt from “Young@Heart’s 40th Anniversary Show,” featuring the world’s “oldest” rock group celebrating their commitment to the stage. Then, learn from subject-area experts as they explore strategies for combatting senior isolation in conversation with members of the Young@Heart Chorus, a stereotype-defying, generation-crossing musical extravaganza.This event is presented by THIRTEEN in partnership with PBS stations Mountain Lake PBS, WCNY, WLIW21, WMHT, WNED PBS, WSKG, and WXXI Public Media.

 Meet the world’s oldest rockers: The Young@Heart Chorus!

The group celebrates their 40th anniversary live on stage in their hometown of Northampton, Massachusetts. Filmed on November 20, 2022, with an introduction by singer-songwriter David Byrne, the chorus sings highlights from their musical repertoire – including songs by Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Clash, Coldplay and Sonic Youth – and also pays tribute to members of the troupe who have passed away.

What started out in 1982 at a Western Massachusetts elderly housing project to joyfully pass the time instead of passing before your time, The Young@Heart Chorus developed into a stereotype-defying, generation-crossing musical extravaganza. Some choral members have prior professional theater or music experience, others have performed extensively on the amateur level, and there are some who never stepped onto a stage before turning 80. Since inception, there have been 150 people with the group.

The troupe, whose members are in their seventies and older, has toured the world from the United States to New Zealand, from Canada to Japan, and has collaborated with youth choirs and incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people.

“People are surprised that Young@Heart can make music that’s not of their era and make it sound new without compromising on the energy needed to make the song rock,” said Bob Cilman, Young@Heart executive/artistic director, in an interview with MassLive.com. “People all over the world have appreciated that. When they see Young@Heart they are seeing one of a kind.”

The Young@Heart Chorus continues to prove it’s “possible to grow old without growing boring.”

Funding for Aging Together in NY was provided in part by the New York State Education Department.