An increasing proportion of senior folks in Florida and across the nation are experiencing physical and mental health problems, primarily due to an epidemic of loneliness.
Public health professionals have raised the alarm, but no significant legislation has yet been passed to address the problem.
U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Rick Scott (R-FL) introduced the Social Engagement and Network Initiatives for Older Relief (SENIOR) Act to address senior loneliness.
Read: Florida Sen. Marco Rubio Warns Of ISIS Offshoot Sneaking Across U.S. Open Border
“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," said Senator Rubio.
Specifically, this bill would:
- Promote programs that combat loneliness and support community integration for seniors by adding “loneliness” to the definition of “disease prevention and health promotion services” under the Older Americans Act.
- Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to prepare a report on the impacts of loneliness on seniors and propose solutions for identified impacts;
- Through the report, analyze the relationship between the strength of multigenerational family units, loneliness, and seniors.
"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," said Senator Smith.
Read: Florida Sen. Marco Rubio Slams Biden For Making The American Dream Out Of Reach For Most
“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," Senator Scott said.
This legislation is supported by the National Council on Aging, Coalition to End Social Isolation and Loneliness, Senior Resource Alliance, and Centerstone.
__Help support the Tampa Free Press by making any small donation by clicking here.__
Android Users, Click To Download The Tampa Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter.Sign up for our free newsletter.
