Seniors & Aging
Helping Our Senior Population

Helping Preserve Enhanced STAR Benefits

The enhanced STAR program allows seniors below certain income levels an exemption on their school tax. Unfortunately, every year many seniors learn too late that the enhanced STAR benefits must be applied for each year if they are to receive the benefits. After the deadline, there is no way to receive the enhanced exemption. However, under a new law, seniors have the option of designating a third party who will also receive a reminder about the application deadline to help ensure that the paperwork is handled promptly. This third party can work with the senior to make sure that all of the necessary forms are filed so they aren't faced with an unnecessary tax burden. If you believe this service might assist you, please contact your assessor's office.

Assisting Low Income Seniors with School Aged Children

I authored a law that gives local school districts the option of granting a property tax exemption to seniors over the age of 65 who have school aged children living in their homes. Previous law prohibited low-income seniors from qualifying for an income based tax exemption if they had school aged children living in their homes. Today's seniors are increasingly finding themselves in the roles of primary care givers for young children. This responsibility brings with it added expenses, making it harder for seniors on a fixed income to get by. This law will make the cost of childcare and daily living expenses easier to bear.

Background Checks for Nursing Homes & Home Healthcare Employees

I have continued to push a bill (A.281-A) that would allow nursing homes and home health care providers to fingerprint new and perspective employees and create a home health care registry. This legislation will give long-term care providers the needed tools to ensure safe and quality services are delivered to their clients. I will continue to advocate for this important legislation that provides some protection for our senior and infirmed citizens of New York State.

Making Hearing Aids More Affordable

I have introduced legislation (A.1479-A), which would require insurance companies to cover up to $1,000 of the cost of hearing aids. The exorbitant costs of hearing aides often deter people who need them from getting them. It is important that we recognize the hearing impaired community needs similar insurance benefits as the visually impaired receive.

Annual Senior Health & Wellness Fair

Every summer since 1994 I have hosted an health and wellness fair that is dedicated to linking senior citizen's with the information and community organizations that help them to care for themselves and loved ones.

A special thanks to the organizations who have volunteered their time and effort at the past fairs. This important event would not be possible without all of you. I also want to extend my gratitude to everyone in the community who attend this event and help make it a success year in and year out. I hope you continue to find fair to be both beneficial and informative. I look forward to seeing you all at next year's fair.

NOTE: The 2004 event is scheduled for August 19th, 2004 at Eastridge High School. Watch for your invitation in the mail, which will contain more specific information.

Page Last Updated: 07/13/2004 03:44 PM