NYSSOS Advocacy Day attendees took part in a direct briefing from top state officials concerning the status of the nascent State Master Plan for Aging. Governor Hochul signed an Executive Order in November of 2022 mandating the creation of the master plan, which is to include the development of strategies for government, the private sector, and the non-profit sector to support older New Yorkers.
The briefing to NYSSOS members was provided by NYS Office for Aging Chief of Staff John Cochran and NYSDOH Center for Aging and Long Term Care Bureau Director Karisa Capone.
The briefing and accompanying dialogue focused on strategies to address challenges related to communication, coordination and innovative care.
Engagement of the musculoskeletal community was emphasized by the presenters, who indicated that orthopaedic physicians“can play an important role in the care and identification of older patients, as well as their caregivers, that are in need of supports and services to help enable them to remain in their community of choice.”
According to the presenters, strategies than can be supported by the orthopaedic community include:
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Addressing social determinants of health, and promoting healthy aging, including falls and fall injury prevention.
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Employing alternatives to opioids for pain management to limit delirium and adverse medication interactions.
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Developing partnerships with local Departments of Health, the aging services network and community based service providers to facilitate aging in place and successful post-acute care discharge outcomes.
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Promoting social and recreational opportunities to increase mobility, including use of walkable, bikeable, transit-friendly communities.
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Use of multi-disciplinary care models that foster aging in place.
NYSSOS will be represented on the Master Plan by its legislative and advocacy chairperson, John Reilly, MD, and will continue to work with state officials to monitor and assist in developing Master Plan orthopaedic elements that are effective, reasonable and sustainable.
To learn more about New York’s State Master Plan for Aging visit: https://www.ny.gov/programs/new-york-states-master-plan-aging
