NY A01860

Amends Elder Law by adding section 203-a requiring the Office to develop model community programs for distribution to local area agencies on aging and community-based organizations.

Model telephone reassurance program shall include daily calls to participating seniors at agreed times, secondary contact protocols, coordination with local law enforcement, and advance consent for home access if seniors cannot be reached.

Program must increase coordination between seniors and operators to reduce unnecessary law enforcement responses.

Model visiting program shall connect seniors lacking family/friend networks with regular volunteers for companionship, including volunteer recruitment through educational institutions, volunteer screening systems, periodic check-ins, and problem resolution protocols.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.