Duval Times

On May 22, 2024, Senators Rick Scott, Marco Rubio, and Tina Smith introduced the Social Engagement and Network Initiatives for Older Relief (SENIOR) Act in Washington, D.C. The bill aims to address senior loneliness, a growing issue contributing to mental and physical health problems among elderly citizens.

Senator Rick Scott emphasized the importance of supporting seniors in Florida and nationwide. "Florida has a wonderful senior population that contributes so much to our great state. Combatting the feeling of isolation and loneliness for our aging community has endless benefits – from better mental and physical health to stronger, multigenerational relationships with families and communities. I’m proud to lead this bill with Senator Rubio to better support our seniors," he stated.

Senator Marco Rubio highlighted the widespread impact of loneliness on seniors' mental health. "Seniors across the country are suffering from mental health issues and loneliness. That is why I am introducing the SENIOR Act to support Florida’s seniors by addressing this issue and bringing seniors back into our communities," he said.

Senator Tina Smith addressed skepticism about legislative solutions for loneliness. "People say we can't combat loneliness through legislation, but I think that’s a ridiculous thing to say. Whether it's Meals on Wheels or support for caregivers, there are so many different things we can do to support people as they age. Nobody deserves to feel so alone and isolated that their health suffers, especially seniors. We are more connected now than ever before – yet loneliness endures. We need to invest in programs that will combat loneliness in our older Americans and I’m glad to be leading this charge," she remarked.

The SENIOR Act proposes several measures:

- Adding “loneliness” to the definition of “disease prevention and health promotion services” under the Older Americans Act.

- Directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to prepare a report on the impacts of loneliness on seniors and propose solutions.

- Analyzing through the report the relationship between multigenerational family units' strength, loneliness, and seniors.

The bill has garnered support from organizations such as the National Council on Aging, Coalition to End Social Isolation and Loneliness, Senior Resource Alliance, and Centerstone.