Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
New York City Council
Committee on Aging
Apr 16, 2025
·
10:00 AM
2 hr 11 min
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Summary
A hearing on Adult Protective Services (APS) referrals, examining operations, challenges, and potential improvements in serving vulnerable adults, particularly older New Yorkers.
Discussions focused on:
- Increased referrals but decreased eligibility
- Staffing shortages
- Housing assistance challenges
- Federal funding concerns
- Interagency collaboration
- Assessment processes
- Elder abuse response
- Preparation for a growing aging population
Features testimony from the Human Resources Administration (HRA), Department of Social Services (DSS), NYC Department for the Aging, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Introduction and welcome to the oversight hearing on adult protective services referrals
Council Member Crystal Hudson opens the oversight hearing on adult protective services referrals. She introduces herself as the chair of the committee on aging and welcomes attendees. - Mentions Resolution …
0:00:45
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29 sec
Overview of Adult Protective Services (APS) eligibility and services
Council Member Hudson provides a comprehensive overview of Adult Protective Services (APS) in New York City. She explains the eligibility criteria, services provided, and the program's role in assisting vulnerable …
0:01:14
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95 sec
Challenges faced by Adult Protective Services in meeting needs and service provision
Council Member Hudson highlights significant challenges faced by APS in meeting the needs of vulnerable adults. She discusses the increase in referrals, decrease in eligibility, and delays in service provision. …
0:02:49
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74 sec
Staffing shortages and their impact on APS operations
Council Member Hudson addresses the staffing shortages within APS and their impact on service delivery. She highlights the significant decrease in APS staff over recent years. - Reports a 25% …
0:04:03
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26 sec
Housing vouchers and APS: Challenges in eligibility and support
Council Member Hudson addresses the issue of low-income New Yorkers seeking APS intervention to obtain city-funded housing vouchers. She highlights the challenges in this process and its implications. - Explains …
0:04:30
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19 sec
Federal funding for APS: Recent threats and importance
Council Member Hudson discusses the recent threat to federal funding for APS programs and its potential impact on vulnerable New Yorkers. She emphasizes the importance of continued federal support. - …
0:04:50
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57 sec
Future considerations for APS and closing remarks
Council Member Hudson outlines future considerations for improving APS and supporting at-risk older adults. She concludes the opening remarks with acknowledgments and thanks. - Expresses hope to better understand the …
0:05:47
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37 sec
Introduction to Adult Protective Services testimony
John Rojas, Chief Special Services Officer at the Human Resources Administration, introduces himself and his colleagues to testify about the Adult Protective Services (APS) program. He expresses gratitude for the …
0:07:00
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41 sec
APS eligibility criteria and state mandates
Adult Protective Services (APS) is a New York state-mandated program that assists vulnerable adults aged 18 and older who meet specific criteria. The program operates under strict state guidelines and …
0:07:43
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57 sec
APS referral process and initial assessment
The APS referral process involves contacting the central intake unit, which assesses potential eligibility. If deemed presumptively eligible, an in-home assessment is conducted within a specified timeframe. - Referrals can …
0:08:40
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79 sec
APS services and interventions
When an individual is determined eligible for APS services, a caseworker develops a comprehensive service plan tailored to their needs. This plan can include a wide range of interventions and …
0:10:00
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56 sec
Referral sources and confidentiality in APS
APS receives referrals from a wide range of sources, including family members, medical professionals, and community organizations. The referral process is designed to be accessible and confidential. - Referrals can …
0:10:58
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69 sec
Assessment and eligibility determination for APS
The APS assessment process is thorough and ongoing, with eligibility determined based on specific criteria set by state law. This process ensures that individuals receive appropriate services based on their …
0:12:08
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63 sec
Age considerations in APS eligibility
While APS serves adults 18 and older, advanced age alone does not determine eligibility. The assessment process considers various factors beyond age to determine if an individual meets the criteria …
0:13:11
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40 sec
Voluntary nature of APS services
The majority of APS services are provided on a voluntary basis, emphasizing the importance of client consent and the least restrictive measures as required by New York State Social Service …
0:13:51
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17 sec
Referrals to other social services
For individuals who do not meet APS eligibility criteria, the assessment process includes referrals to other appropriate social services and programs. This ensures that all individuals receive some form of …
0:14:08
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80 sec
Interagency collaboration and future improvements
HRA and APS work collaboratively with other city agencies and community organizations to improve service delivery and streamline processes for connecting New Yorkers with appropriate assistance. - The Cabinet of …
0:15:29
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27 sec
Conclusion and importance of APS
The testimony concludes by emphasizing the crucial role of Adult Protective Services in the social services safety net and its commitment to assisting at-risk individuals in New York City communities. …
0:15:56
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29 sec
Introduction and acknowledgment of council members
Council Member Crystal Hudson opens the hearing by acknowledging the testimony received and the presence of other council members. This brief introduction sets the stage for the subsequent discussion on …
0:16:25
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12 sec
Home visits and assessments by APS
Council Member Hudson inquires about the number of home visits conducted by APS in the current fiscal year, particularly for assessing eligibility. The APS representatives explain that while they don't …
0:16:39
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48 sec
Frequency and nature of home visits to APS clients
Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim explains the frequency and nature of home visits conducted by APS caseworkers. The majority of APS clients receive monthly home visits, with some exceptions. - APS …
0:17:27
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49 sec
Various professionals involved in client visits
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim elaborates on the range of professionals who may conduct home visits to APS clients, depending on the situation and needs of the individual. - Case supervisors may …
0:18:16
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63 sec
Challenges in conducting home visits and client engagement
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains the challenges APS faces in conducting home visits and engaging with clients. Many clients may be resistant to services or difficult to engage. - APS often …
0:19:18
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49 sec
Referral process for individuals not meeting APS eligibility
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains the process for referring individuals who do not meet APS eligibility criteria to other social services. There is no required follow-up after these referrals are made. …
0:20:07
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67 sec
Resources for reporting and addressing elder abuse
Council Member Hudson inquires about the resources available for reporting and addressing elder abuse. Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim begins to explain the various resources and teams in place. - Question focuses …
0:21:15
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13 sec
Enhanced multidisciplinary team for addressing elder abuse
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains the role and composition of the enhanced multidisciplinary team in addressing elder abuse cases. This team brings together various professionals to collaborate on complex cases. - …
0:21:28
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74 sec
Aging Connect's role in providing information and referrals
Assistant Commissioner Eileen Mullarkey explains the role of Aging Connect in assisting individuals seeking information about elder abuse or referrals to support services for vulnerable older adults. - Aging Connect …
0:22:44
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63 sec
Elder abuse training and resources at older adult centers
Assistant Commissioner Mullarkey discusses the training and resources available at older adult centers regarding elder abuse. All programs are required to have staff trained in understanding elder abuse and available …
0:24:00
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78 sec
NYC Aging's partners' role in reporting to APS
Assistant Commissioner Mullarkey explains the role of NYC Aging's partners in reporting issues to APS and the collaborative relationship between the agencies. - Partners can make direct referrals to APS …
0:25:18
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82 sec
Protocols for urgent or life-threatening situations involving older adults
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains the protocols in place for responding to urgent or life-threatening situations involving older adults. - APS staff call 911 if they encounter a client at risk …
0:26:40
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56 sec
APS eligibility criteria and assessment process
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim outlines the specific eligibility criteria used by APS to determine whether an individual qualifies for protective services and explains the assessment process. - Eligibility criteria include being …
0:27:38
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168 sec
APS referral and acceptance statistics
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim and Chief Special Services Officer Rojas provide statistics on APS referrals and acceptance rates for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 (partial). - Fiscal year 2024: 29,381 referrals, …
0:30:26
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89 sec
Reasons for increased referrals and lower acceptance rates
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains the reasons behind the increase in referrals and lower acceptance rates for APS services. - Increased outreach and education efforts by APS have led to more …
0:31:56
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97 sec
Interagency collaboration on housing assistance for ineligible referrals
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim and Chief Special Services Officer Rojas explain the process of assisting individuals who are ineligible for APS but need housing assistance, highlighting interagency collaboration. - APS provides …
0:33:34
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115 sec
Common types of referrals and case prioritization
Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains how APS handles and prioritizes different types of referrals. - All referrals to APS are treated equally in terms of assessment process - Emergency cases are …
0:35:29
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63 sec
Most common reasons for rejecting APS referrals
Chief Special Services Officer Rojas provides statistics on the most common reasons for rejecting APS referrals. - 44% of rejections: The person retains decision-making capacity and refuses assistance - 22% …
0:36:34
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49 sec
Triage and prioritization process for APS referrals
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about how Adult Protective Services (APS) triages and prioritizes referrals based on need or vulnerability. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim explains the referral process, including assessment …
0:37:24
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92 sec
APS case distribution statistics by borough
Council Member Crystal Hudson requests information on APS case distribution and referrals by borough. John Rojas, Chief Special Services Officer, provides a breakdown of active cases and referrals for calendar …
0:38:56
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103 sec
Percentage of APS referrals from various sources
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the percentage of APS referrals coming from different sources. John Rojas provides a breakdown of referral sources for APS. - 83% of referrals come …
0:40:39
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32 sec
Internal benchmarks for APS referral review timelines
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about internal benchmarks or targets for referral review timelines in APS. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim explains the assessment timeline and monitoring process. - APS has …
0:41:19
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41 sec
APS efforts to reach communities with limited English proficiency
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about how APS ensures that communities with limited English proficiency are aware of available services. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim outlines the measures in place to …
0:42:00
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31 sec
Current staffing levels of APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the current staffing levels of Adult Protective Services (APS) and comparisons to previous fiscal years. John Rojas, Chief Special Services Officer, provides details on …
0:42:33
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53 sec
Number of social workers in APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the number of social workers in Adult Protective Services (APS). Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim provides a brief response. - APS currently has six social …
0:43:27
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12 sec
Number of active APS cases
Council Member Crystal Hudson seeks clarification on the number of active cases in Adult Protective Services (APS). John Rojas, Chief Special Services Officer, provides detailed information on current caseloads. - …
0:43:43
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51 sec
Adequacy of social worker staffing in APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson questions whether six social workers are adequate for the number of APS cases. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim and Chief Special Services Officer John Rojas explain the …
0:44:37
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102 sec
Efforts to fill vacant positions in APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about efforts to fill the 80 vacant positions in Adult Protective Services (APS). John Rojas, Chief Special Services Officer, explains the current hiring process and …
0:46:20
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97 sec
Changes in APS caseload ratios over past years
Council Member Crystal Hudson requests information on how caseload ratios have changed over the past three fiscal years. John Rojas provides data on average caseload ratios for recent calendar years. …
0:47:57
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72 sec
APS staff training for complex cases
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the training APS staff receive to evaluate complex elder abuse, mental health, and neglect cases. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim explains the comprehensive training program …
0:49:10
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117 sec
Staff turnover rates and retention in APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about current staff turnover rates and retention strategies in APS. John Rojas, Chief Special Services Officer, provides insights on staffing challenges and recent hiring efforts. …
0:51:09
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86 sec
Internal assessments of APS staffing levels and caseloads
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about internal assessments of current staffing levels in relation to the volume and complexity of referrals received. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim explains the ongoing monitoring …
0:52:37
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100 sec
Plans to address potential increases in APS referrals
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the city's plan to address potential increases in APS referrals due to the growing older adult population, housing instability, and mental health needs. John …
0:54:19
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130 sec
Ensuring comprehensive assessments for all APS referrals
Council Member Crystal Hudson seeks clarification on the comprehensive assessment process for APS referrals, particularly for those who may need housing assistance but could also be eligible for other APS …
0:56:30
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163 sec
CityFHEPS housing vouchers issued by APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the number of people APS has connected with CityFHEPS vouchers. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim provides statistics on vouchers issued and arrears paid for eligible …
0:59:13
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41 sec
Detailed statistics on APS housing vouchers and arrears payments
Council Member Crystal Hudson seeks clarification and additional details on the statistics provided for CityFHEPS vouchers issued by APS and arrears paid. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim provides more specific information. …
0:59:55
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29 sec
Historical data on APS as a CityFHEPS provider
Council Member Crystal Hudson requests historical data on APS as a CityFHEPS provider for the last five years. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim provides available data and explains the limitations of …
1:00:24
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62 sec
Referral process to Homebase and assistance for clients not eligible for APS
Council Member Hudson, on behalf of Council Member Ayala, inquires about the referral process to Homebase for clients who may not be eligible for Adult Protective Services (APS). HRA representatives …
1:01:29
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116 sec
CityFHEPS application rejections and potential link to evictions
Council Member Hudson, relaying questions from Council Member Ayala, inquires about the high rate of CityFHEPS application rejections and their potential link to evictions. HRA representatives discuss the application process …
1:03:26
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103 sec
Case example: Elderly woman with guardian facing multiple benefit issues
Council Member Hudson presents a case example from Deputy Speaker Ayala about an elderly woman with serious mental health issues who, despite having an appointed guardian, faced multiple problems with …
1:05:10
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4 min
Eligibility criteria for housing assistance through APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the eligibility criteria for housing assistance provided by Adult Protective Services (APS) to older adults in eviction proceedings. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim explains that …
1:09:12
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98 sec
Assessment of assistance availability for older adults with other adults in the home
Council Member Crystal Hudson raises concerns about older adults being denied services due to the presence of another adult in the home, even when that adult cannot provide necessary assistance. …
1:10:53
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113 sec
Process and timeline for implementing financial management services
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the process and timeline for enrolling older adults in financial management services, noting concerns about long wait times. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim explains the …
1:12:47
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133 sec
Protections for older adults experiencing financial abuse
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about expedited processes or additional protections for older adults experiencing financial abuse. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim outlines the steps APS takes in such cases. - …
1:15:01
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41 sec
Coordination between NYC Aging's Aging Connect program and APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about the coordination between NYC Aging's Aging Connect program and Adult Protective Services (APS). Assistant Commissioner Eileen Mullarkey explains the referral process. - Aging Connect …
1:15:43
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34 sec
Follow-up protocols for Aging Connect referrals to APS
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about follow-up protocols when Aging Connect refers individuals to APS, particularly in cases of rejection. Assistant Commissioner Eileen Mullarkey explains the current process and limitations. …
1:16:19
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69 sec
Information sharing protocols between APS and NYC Aging
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about information sharing protocols between Adult Protective Services (APS) and NYC Aging to ensure continuity of care. Assistant Commissioner Eileen Mullarkey provides insights into the …
1:17:29
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73 sec
Coordination between APS and other city agencies
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about coordination between Adult Protective Services (APS) and other city agencies to prevent vulnerable older adults from falling through the cracks. Deputy Commissioner Gili Hershkovich-Kim …
1:18:43
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73 sec
Trends in APS referrals and client demographics
Council Member Hudson inquires about trends in APS referrals and client demographics over the past five years. Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim provides data on recent increases in referrals from marshals, housing …
1:19:57
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147 sec
Measurement of APS intervention success and client outcomes
Council Member Hudson inquires about how APS measures the success of their interventions and what data they can share about client outcomes, especially for older adults. APS representatives explain their …
1:22:26
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58 sec
Potential funding and policy changes for APS at the state level
Council Member Hudson asks about additional funding or policy changes needed at the state level for APS to expand services to a greater number of referred older adults. Chief Special …
1:23:25
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83 sec
APS eligibility criteria and potential reforms
Council Member Hudson inquires about specific eligibility guidelines that may be a barrier to serving more older adults in need and what reforms APS would like to see. Deputy Commissioner …
1:24:48
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39 sec
Impact of federal funding cuts on APS operations and services
Council Member Hudson asks about the potential impact of federal funding cuts on APS's ability to operate and what services would be affected. Chief Special Services Officer Rojas explains the …
1:25:29
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123 sec
Council Member Lee discusses APS funding, staffing, and inter-agency coordination
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about Adult Protective Services (APS) funding, staffing challenges, and coordination with other agencies. John Rojas from HRA provides updates on hiring progress, inter-agency collaboration, and …
1:27:32
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3 min
Increase in APS referrals and assessment cases for older adults
Council Member Hudson inquires about the increase in APS referrals and assessment cases, specifically focusing on the proportion attributed to older adult clients. Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim provides statistics on the …
1:31:03
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40 sec
Reasons for increased APS referrals
Council Member Hudson asks about the factors driving the increase in APS referrals. Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains the main reasons for the rise in referrals. - Enhanced outreach efforts to …
1:31:49
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73 sec
Planning for projected needs of older adult population in APS
Council Member Hudson inquires about APS's plans to address projected needs as the older adult population increases. Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains APS's approach to serving clients regardless of age and …
1:33:02
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104 sec
Demographics of APS clients aged 65 and over
Council Member Hudson inquires about the proportion of APS clients who are 65 years old and over. HRA representatives provide statistics and discuss the implications of serving a significant older …
1:34:47
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3 min
HRA's handling of additional APS caseload and referral volume
Council Member Hudson asks how HRA has been managing the increased caseload and referral volume for APS. Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim explains the strategies employed to address the additional workload. - …
1:38:10
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71 sec
Addressing staff burnout in APS case management
Council Member Hudson inquires about potential burnout among case management staff. Deputy Commissioner Hershkovich-Kim discusses the challenges of the APS program and measures taken to prevent burnout. - No formal …
1:39:23
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50 sec
Funding and headcount for APS in the preliminary plan
Council Member Hudson inquires about additional funding or headcount for APS in the preliminary plan. Chief Special Services Officer John Rojas provides information on the current funding and staffing situation. …
1:40:14
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19 sec
Current and target caseworker ratios for APS
Council Member Hudson inquires about the current average caseworker ratio for APS clients and the target ratio. Chief Special Services Officer John Rojas provides information on current and historical ratios. …
1:40:33
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91 sec
Total headcount for APS case management in fiscal year 2025
Council Member Hudson requests information on the total headcount related to case management for fiscal year 2025. Chief Special Services Officer John Rojas provides a breakdown of the APS staff …
1:42:05
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34 sec
Increase in wait times for home attendant and housekeeper services
Council Member Hudson inquires about the significant increase in wait times for home attendant and housekeeper services. Chief Special Services Officer John Rojas explains the reasons behind the increase and …
1:42:41
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108 sec
Changes in assessment process for home care services
Council Member Hudson asks about the duration of assessments for home care services and the agencies responsible. Chief Special Services Officer John Rojas explains the recent changes in the assessment …
1:44:30
·
77 sec
Council members discuss APS assessments, home care services, and immigration status concerns
Council Members Linda Lee and Crystal Hudson engage in a Q&A session with representatives from the Human Resources Administration about Adult Protective Services (APS) and related programs. They discuss changes …
1:45:47
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4 min
Testimony by Jeannine Cahill-Jackson, Citywide Director of Elder Law at The Legal Aid Society
Jeannine Cahill-Jackson from The Legal Aid Society testifies about challenges their clients face with Adult Protective Services (APS). She highlights issues with the CityFHEPS rental subsidy application process, financial management …
1:53:21
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4 min
Testimony by Eric Lee, Director of Public Policy at Volunteers of America Greater New York, on Adult Protective Services and Supportive Housing
Eric Lee from Volunteers of America Greater New York testified about the challenges and importance of Adult Protective Services (APS) in supporting vulnerable and aging New Yorkers, particularly in supportive …
1:58:22
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3 min
Testimony by Marcus Jackson, Age Friendly Community Organizer at Encore Community Services
Marcus Jackson from Encore Community Services testifies about the importance of affordability for older New Yorkers and the services his organization provides. He urges the city council to protect and …
2:02:09
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127 sec
Testimony by Sharon Brown on Adult Protective Services
Sharon Brown testifies about the need for improvements in Adult Protective Services (APS), particularly in their response time and approach to helping seniors. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing seniors …
2:04:45
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115 sec
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on Mental Health and Adult Protective Services
Christopher Leon Johnson testifies about the need to include mental health considerations in discussions about adult protective services. He argues for expanding the definition of serious mental health issues to …
2:06:44
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3 min