Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) announced today an advisory group of 35 community leaders representing the fields of construction, government, higher education, housing, law, long-term care, medicine, transportation and others will meet to discuss ways to make our community more “elder-friendly.”

Citing examples from other parts of the country, Lupardo will conduct a brainstorming session to see what partnerships can be established so that our area can be more attuned to the wants and needs of older adults. Initiatives from other communities include an “Elder Friendly Business District” in Boston, MA and an “Elder Friendly Business Certification” program in Portland, OR.

“The increasing number of seniors in Broome County presents opportunities for economic development and quality of life that we cannot ignore,” Lupardo said. “In addition, we need to expand existing services and resources to enable seniors to remain in their own homes and out of nursing homes.”