Documentary Highlights NORC Program and Aging Safely in Community

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) has released Aging in Community: A New York First Model, a new documentary that offers an in-depth look at New York’s innovative Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) program. The film features the powerful story of transformative friendship between VNS Health Personal Care NORC nurse Jana Kozlowski and her patient Bess Friedman, a widow who is navigating the challenges of losing her husband.

In the video, Bess credits the bond and friendship she shares with Jana for helping her regain her sense of worth. “Jana is everything you could dream of,” said Bess. “She really listens to you.” Through stories like that of Jana and Bess, the documentary showcases how NORCs provide a comprehensive network of social and health services that help older adults remain independent and age safely in the community of their choice.

To view the film, visit NYSOFA’s NORC Program webpage.