The New York Academy of Medicine

The global coronavirus has brought uncertainty and anxiety into people’s lives, workplaces, and neighborhoods, particularly for those who work to improve the health of our communities.

During this difficult time, many organizations across New York State are working tirelessly to keep people safe, especially the most vulnerable. In response, NYHealth is supporting statewide and local efforts to address emerging health care and public health needs in the wake of the pandemic. In 2020, NYHealth awarded The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) a grant to address isolation among older adults affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under this grant, NYAM convened leaders of “Age-friendly Neighborhoods”—grassroots efforts driven by older people to improve neighborhoods. Participants shared innovative practices and provided solutions to address the pressing needs of older adults during the pandemic. Priorities included food access and distribution; access to information, communication, and technology; access to health care and behavioral health services; and the prevention of social isolation during physical distancing. NYAM surveyed Age-friendly Neighborhood residents to inform its COVID-19 response and recovery activities, including training and facilitating ongoing peer support and networking. It also developed a toolkit for Age-friendly Neighborhoods to incorporate resilience principles into their community planning efforts for current and future emergencies.

View a complete list of NYHealth COVID-19 Response and Relief Efforts grantees.