Annual Public Hearing Oct. 18

The impact of the 2012 federal and state budgets on the aging will be discussed at the annual public hearing of the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services on Tuesday, Oct. 18 from 9 - 11:30 a.m. at the Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave., White Plains.

The hearing provides a venue for individuals to learn about and speak out on advocacy issues and concerns that affect Westchester seniors and their families. Registration is not required to speak.

The annual implementation plan on senior issues from 2012 to 2016 will also be unveiled on the use of the Older Americans Act and the New York State Community Service for the Elderly project funds.

The four-year plan will describe DSPS’ goals, objectives, initiatives, provider reporting requirements, allocation strategies, the reimbursement system and proposed funding allocation schedules for next year. Providers will be able to justify their need for continued funding.

The Elder Needs Index, a new initiative developed to determine the economic security of seniors who are county residents, will also be presented. The Index is based upon the National Elderly Economic Needs Assessment Index, a new initiative developed to identify issues that impact seniors’ economic security.

Greg Olsen, acting director of the New York State Office for the Aging, will provide an overview on future programs.

The update to the 2012-2016 plan will be available at the DSPS office at 9 S. First Ave., 10th Floor, Mount Vernon, starting Oct. 4. It will also be distributed at the Oct. 18 meeting. Written comments will be accepted through Nov. 15, 2011.