Westchester County, New York

Nutrition, Health and Safety

Nutrition, Health and Safety

Resources abound for seniors who want to maintain their health, eat well, and keep fit. Get the facts about cancer, healthy hearts and keeping one step ahead of depression. Learn how the county is lowering the price on prescription drugs and how you can get home health care services and long term care. Learn why you should have a living will and health care proxy.

Be aware of safety precautions you can take in your own home. Check out fire safety tips such as installing and maintaining smoke detectors, using smoking and cooking materials safely, and heating your home safely. Westchester’s Door Bag Program distributes free door bags and encourages seniors to fill them with medical information that can be used by emergency medical personnel in the event of an accident or serious illness.

Senior abuse is also an important issue because so many incidents are not reported. Know the signs and symptoms, certain characteristics that may cause a caregiver to commit abuse and how to report suspected abuse.

Medicare Info Line

Learn more about Medicare issues and get your questions answered. Try the Medicare Information Line.

Senior Nutrition Programs and Sites

Learn about county nutrition programs for seniors and locate congregate meals sites and home delivered meals services by municipality.

You Are Not Alone Community Link Program

This program is designed for anyone who lives alone including seniors and the disabled. A popular component of this program is the Emergency Information Front Door Bag.

Learn about elder abuse, a growing but often hidden crisis, and what Westchester County is doing to stop it.

Safe Centers for Seniors

Westchester County’s Safe Centers for Seniors helps older people who need assistance as well as their caregivers who may feel overwhelmed.

Fire Safety Checklist

Older people are at particular risk for death and injury from fires. To protect yourself and those you care about, follow these seven tips.

NY Connects Choices in Long Term Care

NY Connects means choices for long-term care. This state program offers a 24-hour help line for assistance with related questions.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Learn about long-term care insurance and see if it’s right for you. Page includes on-line resources to find out more.

12 Steps to a Healthier You

Information from the WC Department of Health on heart health, preventing falls, the Westchester Rx prescription savings program, the shingles vaccine and more.

Special Needs Registry

Consider registering with the Special Needs Registry if you might require assistance leaving your home during an emergency. The registry is for individuals with physical or mental disabilities who live on their own.

Depression Support

Seniors have one of the highest risks of depression. That’s why Westchester County offers a special helpline for anyone who needs assistance.