Healthfirst, a leading not-for-profit health insurance plan, today hosted its third annual Caregivers Symposium, connecting family caregivers with support and resources while recognizing their contributions to the community.
Held at the James Weldon Johnson Older Adult Center in East Harlem, the symposium was themed “Caregiving Around the Clock” and featured keynote remarks from New York State Senator Cordell Cleare, Chair of the State Committee on Aging. Representatives from the New York City Department for the Aging provided information about city resources, and Sheila Warnock, author of Share the Care, reflected on her personal experience as a caregiver. Government agencies and community-based organizations shared information with attendees, who enjoyed live music from the NYPD Jazz Band. The event concluded with Healthfirst recognizing the family caregivers in attendance with certificates of appreciation for their contributions and dedication.
In New York City, more than 1.3 million people serve as family caregivers, according to the NYC Department for the Aging. Though about half of caregivers are older adults, a 2025 NYC Department for the Aging survey found that only 1 in 4 of these adults was aware of caregiver services, making community forums such as the Healthfirst Caregivers Symposium essential for bridging this gap.
"Family caregivers fill a vital role in our healthcare and long-term care systems," said Tamara Romero, Vice President of Long-Term Care Products at Healthfirst. "By bringing caregivers together through events like our symposium and offering resources that can help with care coordination, Healthfirst is helping bring together a community of support and connection for caregivers and providing practical support for the responsibilities they manage every day."
“Caregivers play a critical role in our healthcare system, yet their contributions and needs are often overlooked,” said City Council Member Elsie Encarnación. “They give so much of their time and energy to caring for others, so it is vital that they have the support, resources, and guidance they need. Thank you to Healthfirst for organizing this meaningful symposium, bringing caregivers together, and creating an opportunity for them to connect, learn, and access valuable resources. Investing in our caregivers means investing in the well-being of our entire community.”
“We know it takes a community to help New Yorkers age-in-place, which is why events like these are so important to not only let residents know about the caregiving programs available to them, but also to help them to realize they are a caregiver as well,” said NYC Aging Commissioner Dr. Lisa Scott-McKenzie. “This National Family Caregivers Month, NYC Aging stands alongside Healthfirst to help ensure caregivers and their loved ones have the supports they need to live the quality of life they deserve.”