I sure wish those people the best.
I'd imagine that many older folks with few resources are extremely frightened. When the power goes, the lights go, the heat goes, and being cold in the dark is a scary proposition for some folks.
If it were me, I'd head for one of the shelters. They'll get taken care of first.
(Actually I wouldn't, I am fortunate enough to have resources, but if I were a poorer old person in NY, I'd sure would. Nothing like warmth, a dry bed and a meal.)