In New York City, a network of more than 300 older adult centers (OACs) serve as a vital resource to the nearly 1.8 million older adult New Yorkers.
These centers offer nutritious meals and a variety of engaging activities that have been proven to reduce social isolation, boost physical activity, and improve overall health. Despite the advantages, many older adults are either unaware of these services or don’t feel they are for them. This stigma, combined with geographical and mobility obstacles, can hinder participation.
Recognizing the need to break down these barriers and draw more older adults to the welcoming and vibrant atmosphere of these centers, efforts are underway not just in New York City, but nationwide.
In 2017, the Iowa Department on Aging tackled this challenge with its innovative Encore Café project, funded by the Administration for Community Living (ACL). This initiative modernized the traditional older adult dining model by introducing a café-style setting and expanding services to include case management, elder rights advocacy, and caregiver support. The project’s success was highlighted in a 2021 study published in the Journal of Nutrition Gerontological Geriatrics, which reported a dramatic 3,164% increase in congregate nutrition program participation and a 386% rise in meal distribution.
Now, 6 years later, NYC Aging has embarked on a similar initiative with a 5-year research grant awarded by ACL. The project aims to boost participation by launching pop-up cafés in areas without nearby OACs that have been identified as “food deserts.” These cafés would offer extended meal hours, diverse menu options that are culturally aligned with the neighborhoods, lighter fare such as yogurts and crudites, and activities that promote social engagement.
Research will track whether the pop ups foster interest in other OAC offerings.
To date, NYC Aging and its partners have launched 6 pop-up café sites, with plans to open 12 more cafés over the next 4 years. So far, participants have praised the cozy atmosphere, fresh meals and sense of community these sites offer. Notably, more than 35% of the attendees are new to NYC Aging and its services, showcasing the project’s early success.
But how will success be measured? NYC Aging has partnered with Dr. Manoj Pardasani, a renowned researcher in community services for older adults and Provost at Hunter College of New York City, to lead research throughout the project. Key aspects of the research include gathering feedback from new members via surveys and exploring questions such as: Can this café model attract more older adults, including those who have been disconnected from OACs? Does it appeal to individuals looking for a different experience? Can it improve overall health by increasing engagement with activities, classes, and social opportunities? Additionally, the research will track whether new members continue to use NYC Aging services beyond the pop-ups. To provide a comprehensive evaluation, the study will assess the impact of traditional OAC programs on participants as well, leading to meaningful comparisons between the two models.
To learn more about NYC Aging and its initiatives, please visit our About page.
This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $943,817 with 75% funded by ACL/HHS and $317,000 and 25% funded by non-government source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
