New York
New York's 65+ population hit 1.43 million as nursing homes warn of Medicaid underfunding
WAMC reports New York is the fourth-oldest state, with only 2.8 working adults projected per senior by 2030, while industry leaders say Medicaid covers about 75% of nursing home residents and underpays by roughly $100 a day.
Key facts
- NY 65+ population: 1.43 million in 2023 (+53% since 2000).
- Master Plan: 2.8 workers per senior by 2030.
- Industry: ~75% of NH residents on Medicaid; ~$100/day underfund.
What happened
In a November 5 WAMC interview, Stephen Hanse, president of the New York State Health Facilities Association, described what he called a "silver tsunami" for the state's long-term care system. He said the population of New Yorkers 65 and older reached 1.43 million in 2023, a 53% increase since 2000, and that New York has the fourth-oldest population in the country.
Hanse cited the state's Master Plan for Aging projection that by 2030 there will be only 2.8 working adults for every person over 65, down from 3.6 in 2020 and 6 in 1960. He said New York already faces a long-term care workforce shortage.
On nursing homes, Hanse said approximately 75% of residents are supported by Medicaid and that the state underfunds the cost of care for a Medicaid resident by about $100 per resident per day, which he said creates obstacles to recruiting and retaining workers when other jobs pay more.
What it means for families
More older New Yorkers and thin Medicaid nursing home payments mean longer waits and tighter staffing are likely to stay part of the picture for families.
If a hospital discharge planner offers only one nursing home, ask for other options and compare Care Compare staffing and inspection results.
Home care and county programs such as EISEP can be a bridge when a nursing home bed is hard to find, especially for people who do not yet have Medicaid.
Western New York families can call NY Connects at 1-800-342-9871, or their county Office for the Aging, to ask about home care, caregiver support, and nursing home waitlists.
What to do this week
- If a parent may need a nursing home soon, ask hospitals and communities about current waitlists now, not after a crisis.
- Call NY Connects (1-800-342-9871) about home care and EISEP options.
- Write down your parent's preferred facilities and backup choices before a hospital discharge.
Sources
More from New York
- A Western New York county explains home care help for seniors, including a program for people without Medicaid
- New York explains SNAP work rules for older adults: 65 and older are exempt
- New York explains the Medicaid changes coming in 2027, including work rules and six-month renewals