May 15, 2026
- By : Ambassador Team
At a recent joint meeting hosted by The Ambassador Scarsdale for the Central Westchester Geriatric Committee and Northern Westchester Geriatric Committee, members gathered for an important discussion on New York State’s Master Plan for Aging and its focus on supporting caregivers and older adults throughout New York communities.
We were pleased to welcome John Cochran, Chief of Staff for the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA), who presented an overview of the Master Plan for Aging, including its development, implementation, and long-term goals for improving the lives of older adults and the individuals who care for them. The presentation highlighted the growing importance of caregiver support, age-friendly community planning, healthy aging initiatives, and expanded access to services and technology for older New Yorkers.
The discussion also explored the broader impact of caregiving in New York State, where millions of unpaid caregivers provide critical support to loved ones each year, contributing billions of dollars in estimated economic value statewide.
Attendees also reviewed a variety of free NYSOFA resources available to older adults and families, including caregiver support tools, online educational programs, wellness resources, and virtual connection opportunities.
The Ambassador Scarsdale was honored to host this collaborative educational program bringing together professionals dedicated to supporting older adults, caregivers, and aging services throughout Westchester County.
View the presentation deck and caregiver resources below:
• NYSOFA Free Resources Guide
• Master Plan for Aging Presentation
Pictured left to right:
• Ronnie Cox, Livable Communities, Community Outreach and Housing, Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services
• John Cochran, Chief of Staff for the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA)
• Vivianna De Cohen, Commissioner, New York State Department of Veterans Services
• Jean Dunphy, Chair, Central Westchester Geriatric Committee and President, The Ambassador Scarsdale Assisted Living
• Colette Phipps, LMSW, CDP, Director of Program Development, Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services