Press Releases

NYC Aging Hosts Third Annual Healthy Aging Fair

Taking place during National Healthy Aging Month and Falls Prevention Awareness Week, hundreds of New Yorkers and caregivers took part in fitness classes and health screenings

New York, NY – Hundreds of New Yorkers visited Asphalt Green on the upper east side of Manhattan on September 17 for NYC Aging’s Healthy Aging Fair. Residents 60 years and older are the fastest growing population in the city, and for the third consecutive year, they and their caregivers had the opportunity to receive free health information, resources, screenings, and participate in physical activities to support their well-being.

Over 70 City agencies, non-profit organizations, and health organizations were present to provide support and resources to attendees. The event took place over National Healthy Aging Month, which aims to inspire older adults to improve their physical and mental well-being. It was also the beginning of Falls Prevention Awareness Week, which was created to educate the public on the seriousness that falls can have on the life of an older person, and what can be done to prevent them.

There are programs and supports throughout the city including fitness classes, healthy meals and in-home services to support an individual’s needs as they age. More information can be found by visiting nyc.gov/aging or calling Aging Connect at 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469).

“The Healthy Aging Fair showed NYC Aging’s core programs and expertise, allowing older New Yorkers and caregivers to see firsthand how we support them age with the grace and dignity they deserve” said NYC Aging Commissioner Dr. Lisa Scott-McKenzeie. “This annual event continues to bring residents and our sister agencies together to show how, as a team, we provide all-around care to create an age-inclusive city we can all be proud to live in, and I thank them all for once again making the Fair an incredible success.”

“NYC Aging’s Healthy Aging Fair connects older New Yorkers and caregivers with the resources they need to remain healthy, active, and independent,” said Assembly Member Rebecca A. Seawright, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Aging. “I commend Commissioner Dr. Lisa Scott-McKenzie for her leadership and commitment to building a more age-friendly city.”

“Every New Yorker deserves to age with access to quality, affordable health care close to home,” said Dr. Ted Long, Senior Vice President and System Chief Medical Officer for Clinical Services and Population Health at NYC Health + Hospitals. “The public health care system is proud to join NYC Aging and our partners at today's Healthy Aging Fair to help older adults and their caregivers connect to primary care and preventive screenings before a preventable health issue becomes a crisis. We are here to meet older New Yorkers where they are and support them in living healthy and independently.”

“Asphalt Green is proud to provide opportunities for our city’s older adults to stay active and connected all year round. As our city’s older adult population continues to grow, partnerships between program providers and city agencies are crucial to building a healthier and more resilient New York City,” said Jordan Bracket, Chief Executive Office, Asphalt Green. “I am grateful to partners like the Department of Aging, whose collaboration through events like this year’s Healthy Aging Fair empowers our mission to transform lives and build community through sports, fitness, and play for all.” 

“At Rethink Food, we believe access to nutritious, dignified food is an essential part of supporting health and well-being at every stage of life. We’re proud to partner with NYC Aging for the Healthy Aging Fair and to help create a welcoming space where older New Yorkers can enjoy a nourishing meal while connecting with resources that support their health, independence, and quality of life,” said Africa Dawson-Cessant, Senior Director of Programs, Rethink Food. “Partnerships like this reflect what’s possible when we come together to care for our communities.” 

“NewYork-Presbyterian is happy to again participate in the Healthy Aging Fair and work alongside the Mayor’s Office and organizations dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of older New Yorkers,” said Anne Sperling, senior vice president of government and community affairs at NewYork-Presbyterian. “With a broad range of free, health-related activities, such as blood pressure screenings, stroke awareness information, and falls prevention resources from our trauma team, we look forward to helping the community access the information they and their loved ones need to live healthier, safer lives.” 

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 About NYC Aging:

The NYC Department for the Aging (NYC Aging) promotes and supports inclusive, safe, affordable, healthy aging. NYC Aging remains steadfast in its role and responsibility to preserve the dignity and quality of life for approximately 1.8 million diverse older New Yorkers by eliminating food insecurity, providing access to affordable, stable housing, enhancing access to quality healthcare services and protecting older New Yorkers from harm and abuse with the ultimate goal of a more age-friendly city in which older adults can age gracefully with respect.