SEARCH RESULTS

Mental Health and Aging Your mental health matters at every age. As we age, life brings changes; new joys, but also losses, health problems, and sometimes loneliness. These changes can affect how we feel. If you are not feeling like yourself, you are not alone, and help is available.

NYC Aging’s Geriatric Mental Health Initiative NYC Aging provides mental health services in local communities by placing licensed clinicians at older adult centers in all five boroughs. Screenings to assess mental health needs Supportive and evidence-based counseling (individual, group, family, or couples) Engagement activities to raise awareness about mental health Information and referrals Services include: These services are available to all New Yorkers aged 60 and older and are provided by bilingual licensed clinicians who speak the community's languages, including Cantonese, Mandarin, Italian, Russian, and Spanish. You don't need to be a member of an older adult center to receive these services, which are offered in-person, virtually, or by phone. Common Mental Health Warning Signs Mental health affects how we think, feel, and cope with stress. Here are some signs that may indicate it's time to seek help: Feelings of sadness or hopelessness Changes in eating or sleeping habits Withdrawing from people and activities you enjoy Excessive worry or fear Unusual confusion, anger, or irritability Thoughts of hurting yourself or others Difficulty managing everyday stress How to Access Mental Health Services If you or someone you know needs help or wants to learn more about NYC Aging’s Geriatric Mental Health Initiative, call Aging Connect at 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469).

FOOD AND NUTRITION Proper nutrition is essential for older adults to lead healthy, active, and fulfilling lives. Healthy food and nutrition help are older adults to maintain health, prevent chronic diseases, and improve overall quality of life. Here is an overview of their importance: 1. Maintaining Health and Functionality Nutrient Requirements: As metabolism slows and the body’s ability to absorb nutrients changes, older adults need a nutrient-dense diet to meet their needs without excessive calorie intake. Muscle Maintenance: Adequate protein intake is essential to prevent sarcopenia (muscle loss), which can lead to frailty and decreased mobility. 2. Preventing Chronic Diseases Heart Health: A diet low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol, and high in fiber can reduce the risk of heart disease. Bone Health: Sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake is critical to prevent osteoporosis and fractures. Diabetes Management: Balanced meals with controlled portions of carbohydrates help in managing blood sugar levels. 3. Boosting Immune Function Vitamins and Minerals: Nutrients like vitamins C and E, zinc, and selenium play a role in maintaining a strong immune system. Hydration: Adequate fluid intake is necessary for overall health and helps in preventing dehydration, which can affect immunity and other bodily functions. 4. Improving Mental Health and Cognitive Function Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish and flaxseed, they are linked to reduced risk of cognitive decline and improved brain health. Antioxidants: Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, can protect against oxidative stress and support brain health. 5. Enhancing Quality of Life Energy Levels: Proper nutrition provides the energy needed for daily activities and maintaining independence. Social Interaction: Sharing meals can provide opportunities for social engagement, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. 6. Managing Weight and Appetite Balanced Diet: Helps in maintaining a healthy weight, preventing both obesity and undernutrition. Appetite Changes: Addressing changes in taste, smell, and appetite to ensure adequate food intake. Key Nutritional Guidelines for Older Adults Variety: A diverse diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Portion Control: Monitoring portion sizes to avoid overeating. Regular Meals: Consistent meal times to help with digestion and nutrient absorption. Low Sodium: Reducing salt intake to manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Fiber: High-fiber foods to aid digestion and prevent constipation. Support and Resources Community Programs: Access to meal programs, food banks, and nutrition education. Healthcare Guidance: Regular check-ups with healthcare providers to tailor nutrition plans to individual health needs. Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) The Department for the Aging’s Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides eligible older New Yorkers with $25 coupon booklets for use at participating farmers’ markets, farm stands, and mobile markets. The program promotes better nutrition through increased consumption of locally grown fruits and vegetables and boosts sales for local vendors. Eligibility Requirements To receive $25 coupon booklets, New Yorkers must: Be 60 years of age or older Have a monthly income not exceeding: $2,322 for a one-person household $3,152 for a two-person household $3,981 for a three-person household You can sign up for this program at a local older adult center or congregate meal site. This year there are 350 distribution sites in NYC. Click the link below to find the closest distribution sites in Brooklyn.

ART & CULTURE

Physical Function and Mobility

Our Commitment to Community At Bridge To Community, we are committed to serving our local community with integrity and transparency. This section is where we communicate our dedication to providing valuable services and resources to our visitors. We aim to build trust by clearly outlining the nature of our website and how it benefits the community. Our commitment includes respecting your privacy and ensuring a safe online environment for all. Join Us in Building a Stronger Community Get Involved

Health Insurance Assistance Download a list of HIICAP sites here Or call Aging Connect at 212-244-6469 for more information. If you have questions about Medicare and which plan is right for you, call the Department for the Aging’s Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Program (HIICAP) to speak with a trained expert. HIICAP is a free resource that educates Medicare beneficiaries about: Medicare Part A and Part B plans Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage program (EPIC) Medicare Advantage (Part C) Medigap insurance to supplement Original Medicare How Medicare works with retiree coverage Medicare Savings Programs and Low-Income Subsidy to help pay costs Resources A Complete Guide to the New HIICAP Guidebook: Medicare And You 2024: The Official U.S. Government Medicare Handbook Here Medicare 與您 2024 Here Medicare Y Usted 2024 Here

EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY

Support for Caregivers Many New Yorkers have extra responsibilities, such as caring for a loved one. This can add stress, making additional support necessary. New York City’s Department for the Aging’s Caregiver Program offers resources and programs to help. New York City has 900,000 to 1.3 million caregivers, many of whom are women or older adults providing at least 30 hours of care each week in addition to working outside the home. Caring for Adults Caregivers often look after older adults with Alzheimer's, other dementias, or chronic illnesses. Some older adults are also raising their grandchildren, known as kinship care. Both situations can be stressful, especially if caregivers are unaware of available resources and programs. NYC Aging funds 12 community-based caregiver programs that provide: Information and referrals Long-term care planning Support groups Counseling Training Respite care Financial assistance for assistive devices (medical alert systems, limited home modifications, and caregiving supplies) Mental Health Support for caregivers If you care for an older adult, your mental health matters too. Caregiving can be rewarding and exhausting at the same time. Many caregivers feel stressed, anxious, or depressed. You are not alone, and help is available. RESOURCE PHONE WHAT THEY OFFER Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline CaringKind NYC Aging Caregiver Program Friendship Line (Institute on Aging) CEAD Caregiver Support (SUNY Downstate) 1-800-272-3900 (646) 744-2900 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469) 1-800-971-0016 (718) 270-2003 24-hour help for families facing Alzheimer's or other dementias. Many languages. NYC's leading dementia caregiver support organization. Social work care management, support groups, training. Information, referrals, counseling, respite care, support groups. 24/7 support for caregivers and adults 60+. Free. Caregiver support groups and family education. Caregivers should seek support. Contact Aging Connect at 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469) or use our Services Finder (https://www.nyc.gov/site/dfta/services/find-help.page ) to locate the nearest Caregiver Program. For kinship caregivers, the New York State’s Kinship Navigator (https://www.nysnavigator.org/ ) offers more information on available services. Learn more about NYC Aging’s support for caregivers in the Survey of Informal Caregivers and Plan to Support Unpaid Caregivers (https://www.nyc.gov/assets/dfta/downloads/pdf/reports/UnpaidCaregivers2017.pdf ). Social Adult Day Care For older adults needing help with daily activities, Social Adult Day Care (https://www.nyc.gov/site/dfta/community-partners/social-adult-day-care.page ) provides socialization, supervision, personal care, and nutrition in a structured setting. Use our Service Finder (https://www.nyc.gov/site/dfta/services/find-help.page ) to locate the nearest one.

Together, we make aging stronger. The WAVE Clinic (Wellness, Aging, Vitality & Education) provides gold-standard, team-based care for older adults in Brooklyn. Our focus is wellness, prevention, and education — helping you enjoy life at every stage. Our Mission: Support your health and independence through annual Medicare Wellness Visits. Provide comprehensive, preventive health assessment, and coordinated care from an interprofessional team. Make SUNY Downstate become an Age-Friendly Health System for all Brooklyn residents. Who We Serve: Anyone who is 65 years and older and has Medicare Your Visit at the WAVE Clinic Your Annual Medicare Wellness and Preventive Visit is designed to check on your health—not because you’re sick, but to keep you healthy. There is no cost or copay for this preventive visit. 718-270-2003 Meet our team During your visit, we will: ✔ Review your medications and any side effects ✔ Talk about your memory, mood, and mental well-being ✔ Discuss your lifestyle, safety, and what matters most to you ✔ Create a personalized plan for healthy aging ✔ Provide referrals to specialists or support services as needed Routine health care appointments continues with your Primary Care Provider (PCP)... no need to change! 718-270-2003 The SUNY Downstate Health Sciences Interdisciplinary WAVE providers and staff support your Preventive Health and Wellness plans, goals, and successes!! Geriatric Medicine & Psychiatry Nurse Practitioners & Pharmacists Occupational Therapists Care Managers: Social Workers Nursing Home Education Consultants Administrators, Researchers & Health Educators Together, we make aging stronger.

COGNITIVE STIMULATION AND BRAIN GAMES

TERMS OF USE BridgeToCommunity.org Effective Date: 05/28/2026 Welcome to BridgeToCommunity.org. This website is operated for educational, informational, outreach, and community resource purposes in connection with the BRIDGE program and its affiliated academic, healthcare, and community partners. By accessing or using this website, you agree to these Terms of Use. If you do not agree with these Terms, please do not use this website. 1. Purpose of This Website BridgeToCommunity.org provides general information about community programs, health education, aging-related resources, supportive services, events, referrals, and community engagement opportunities. 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