[Senate Hearing 119-58]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
S. Hrg. 119-58
BREAKING THE CYCLE OF SENIOR
LONELINESS: STRENGTHENING FAMILY
AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
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HEARING
BEFORE THE
SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING
UNITED STATES SENATE
ONE HUNDRED NINETEENTH CONGRESS
FIRST SESSION
__________
WASHINGTON, DC
__________
MARCH 12, 2025
__________
Serial No. 119-05
Printed for the use of the Special Committee on Aging
[GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Available via the World Wide Web: http://www.govinfo.gov
__________
U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE
60-186 PDF WASHINGTON : 2025
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SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING
RICK SCOTT, Florida, Chairman
DAVE McCORMICK, Pennsylvania KIRSTEN E. GILLIBRAND, New York
JIM JUSTICE, West Virginia ELIZABETH WARREN, Massachusetts
TOMMY TUBERVILLE, Alabama MARK KELLY, Arizona
RON JOHNSON, Wisconsin RAPHAEL WARNOCK, Georgia
ASHLEY MOODY, Florida ANDY KIM, New Jersey
JON HUSTED, Ohio ANGELA ALSOBROOKS, Maryland
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McKinley Lewis, Majority Staff Director
Claire Descamps, Minority Staff Director
C O N T E N T S
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Page
Opening Statement of Senator Rick Scott, Chairman................ 1
Opening Statement of Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand, Ranking
Member......................................................... 2
PANEL OF WITNESSES
Andrew MacPherson, Founder and Executive Chair, Foundation for
Social Connection Action Network, Washington, D.C.............. 3
James Balda, President and CEO, Argentum, Washington, D.C........ 5
Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO, YMCA of the USA, Tampa,
Florida........................................................ 7
Tori Strawter-Tanks, Director, Clayton County Senior Services
Department, Jonesboro, Georgia................................. 10
APPENDIX
Prepared Witness Statements
Andrew MacPherson, Founder and Executive Chair, Foundation for
Social Connection Action Network, Washington, D.C.............. 30
James Balda, President and CEO, Argentum, Washington, D.C........ 36
Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO, YMCA of the USA, Tampa,
Florida........................................................ 41
Tori Strawter-Tanks, Director, Clayton County Senior Services
Department, Jonesboro, Georgia................................. 43
Questions for the Record
Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO, YMCA of the USA, Tampa,
Florida........................................................ 47
Tori Strawter-Tanks, Director, Clayton County Senior Services
Department, Jonesboro, Georgia................................. 49
Statements for the Record
The Alzheimer's Association and Alzheimer's Impact Movement (AIM)
Statement...................................................... 53
ASHA Statement................................................... 55
ASHA: Senior Living Communities Report........................... 59
ASHA: The Surpassing Price of Staying in a House Report.......... 77
James Balda Statement............................................ 91
NANASP Statement................................................. 98
Oshkosh Community YMCA Statement................................. 99
YMCA Statement................................................... 106
YMCA Florida Statistics.......................................... 107
BREAKING THE CYCLE OF SENIOR
LONELINESS: STRENGTHENING FAMILY
AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
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Wednesday, March 12, 2025
U.S. Senate
Special Committee on Aging
Washington, DC.
The Committee met, pursuant to notice, at 03:31 p.m., Room
106, Dirksen Senate Office Building, Hon. Rick Scott, Chairman
of the Committee, presiding.
Present: Senator Scott, Justice, Johnson, Moody, Husted,
Gillibrand, and Warnock.
OPENING STATEMENT OF SENATOR
RICK SCOTT, CHAIRMAN
The Chairman. [[added post: The U.S. Senate Special
Committee on Aging will now come to order.
Today, I want to address the tragedy of rising social
isolation and]] loneliness among American seniors. Americans
have never had more opportunities for connection than we do
today, but studies are repeatedly warning that feelings of
isolation and loneliness are rising dramatically, especially
among elderly Americans. This is a problem.
Here is why it should matter to everyone in this room and
the American people. The cycle of loneliness in seniors impacts
all of us, and if we don't figure it out now, we are doing
future generations to suffer the same negative impacts of
isolation. We can and must do better.
Combating the feeling of isolation and loneliness for the
aging community has endless benefits, from better mental and
physical health, to stronger multi--generational relationships
for families and communities. Another benefit to reducing
isolation and loneliness is that this is critical in our fight
against scams.
The internet and social media are great for many things,
but when isolated and lonely seniors turn to the internet for
companionship and social interaction. They are far more likely
to become victims of scams. It is heartbreaking because this
only fuels a cycle of negative outcomes for vulnerable older
Americans.
That is why last week I was proud to be joined by Senator
Mark Kelly and several of our colleagues on the Aging Committee
to introduce and pass a resolution designating March 6th as
National Slam the Scam Day and working to raise awareness of
scams targeting older Americans. Seniors have lost so much to
scams, in many cases their identities or their life savings.
Seniors are attacked with grandparent scams, financial
services scams, tech support scams, Government impersonation
scams, romance scams, among others. All of these scams are even
more effective with seniors who are struggling with loneliness,
isolation, and depression. In 2023, people over 60 lost a
combined 3.4 billion to fraud worldwide. We need to put an end
to this.
This is something that every American should be worried
about. I know that every member of this Committee wants to put
an end to this critical issue. I am glad that Pam Bondi is our
Attorney General and Kash Patel is the Director of the FBI.
I am confident they will fight for every senior in our
country and make sure that criminals are held accountable for
their despicable crimes. Beyond preventing scams, tackling the
issues associated with loneliness are key to my goal as
chairman of this Committee to improve the wellness of American
seniors.
I know the ranking member has the same goal. In our first
meeting, I outlined four issues for this Committee to focus on
as we work to improve the wellness of American seniors. One of
these four issues was improving family and community support,
and that is so important because when seniors feel they have
purpose and are part of the community, they thrive.
The sad reality we face today is that a growing number of
senior citizens are suffering from mental and physical issues
largely driven by an epidemic of loneliness. Despite public
health officials sounding the alarm, the issue has not yet been
addressed through any major legislation.
That is why I introduced the Social Engagement and Network
Initiatives for Older Relief, or SENIOR Act, to address senior
loneliness. I am proud to have the support of Argentum, the
Foundation for Social Connection Action Network, and the YMCA,
who are all represented here today by our witnesses.
The SENIOR Act has also been endorsed by Meals on Wheels.
Finally, I think it is incredibly important to recognize the
impact that COVID had on our seniors. Due to shutdowns and
restrictions in places like hospitals, assisted living
facilities, and nursing homes, many seniors weren't allowed to
be near their children, or grandchildren, or any of their loved
ones. In many cases, they were completely isolated to their own
rooms. That is horrible. This was heartbreaking to see.
We all know the importance of community and social
interaction for our seniors and the great health benefits it
has. We had so many seniors that weren't even allowed to have
their loved ones next to them during their last time of need or
their last moments on this earth. We all know that seniors
contribute greatly when given opportunities to be active
members in their communities.
I hope to make significant progress on this issue to end
loneliness and isolation among seniors, pass my SENIOR Act, and
work together to improve the wellness of older Americans. I
look forward to hearing your testimony and working with my
colleagues on next steps to fight this issue. I would now like
to recognize Ranking Member Gillibrand for her opening
statement.
OPENING STATEMENT OF SENATOR
KIRSTEN E. GILLIBRAND, RANKING MEMBER
Senator Gillibrand. Thank you, Chairman Scott, for calling
today's hearing. Imagine growing old by yourself with no
friends, no family, no loved ones around. I have seen it
before, and it is really lonely. It is the reality of many of
our seniors today.
A heartbreaking one in four older Americans report being
socially isolated, and 43 percent report feeling lonely.
Loneliness and social isolation have detrimental consequences,
increasing risks of early death, chronic disease, and dementia.
This is not the kind of life that we want for our loved ones.
It is not the kind of life we want for ourselves. The good
news is there are many things we can do to reduce and prevent
loneliness and social isolation. For example, home and
congregate meals deliver both life--sustaining nutrition and
social connection for older adults in their homes and
community.
Transportation programs allow adults with limited mobility
to participate in community and social activities. There are
also various innovative programs, such as intergenerational
initiatives, that can help reduce social isolation. I look
forward to working with my colleagues to support and strengthen
programs that do reduce loneliness and social isolation for
older adults.
This includes protecting and strengthening critical federal
funding for these programs, including in the Older Americans
Act. I am proud to lead and support efforts to increase funding
for the Older American Act programs, including the nutrition
programs.
I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today, and to
hear all the ways that they can help--that we can help seniors
stay engaged, connected, and integrated in their communities.
The Chairman. Thank you, Ranking Member Gillibrand. Now, to
welcome our witnesses here today. Before I introduce our first
witness, I would like to ask each of you to be mindful of our
limited time together today and keep opening statements to five
minutes. First, I would like to welcome Andrew MacPherson.
Mr. MacPherson is the Founder and Board Chair of the
Foundation for Social Connection Action Network, an
organization representing some of the most influential consumer
groups, patient advocates, health plans, community-based
organizations, behavioral health groups, and private sector
innovators in the United States. Thank you for being here
today, and please begin with your testimony.
STATEMENT OF ANDREW MACPHERSON, FOUNDER AND
EXECUTIVE CHAIR, FOUNDATION FOR SOCIAL
CONNECTION ACTION NETWORK, WASHINGTON, D.C.
Mr. MacPherson. Chairman Scott, Ranking Member Gillibrand,
and distinguished members of the Aging Committee, thank you so
much for the opportunity to testify today on the critical issue
of loneliness among older adults.
My name is Andrew MacPherson, and I am the Founder and
Executive Chair of the Foundation for Social Connection Action
Network. Established in 2018, we convened a diverse multi-
sector coalition of national organizations to develop and
advocate for federal policy solutions that address the epidemic
of social and loneliness in America.
Since our establishment, the Action Network has been
honored to play an important role in supporting and advising
the policy efforts of Congress, on a bipartisan basis, as well
as the executive branch. Chairman Scott, thank you for your
leadership in authoring the bipartisan Social Engagement and
Network Initiatives for Older Relief, or SENIOR Act, which
underscores the role that the Older Americans Act plays in
addressing loneliness.
While significant progress has been made here in Congress,
of course our work on this issue is far from over. As you know,
social isolation and loneliness among older adults has reached
epidemic proportions with devastating combined effects on
public health, healthcare costs, and individual well-being.
According to the National Academies, 24 percent of
Americans aged 65 and older are considered to be socially
isolated. Forty percent of adults aged 60 and older report
feeling lonely, and chronic loneliness is linked to a 50
percent increased risk of dementia, 29 percent increased risk
of heart disease, and 32 percent risk of stroke.
Beyond its impact on an individual's health, social
isolation and loneliness among older adults carries a
substantial economic burden to our country as well. AARP, a
member of our coalition, estimates that Medicare spends an
additional $6.7 billion annually on socially isolated older
adults due to increased hospitalizations, emergency room
visits, and over-reliance on long-term care services.
Chairman Scott and Ranking Member Gillibrand, I have
included much more comprehensive analysis in my written
testimony submitted to the Committee. Fortunately, there are
ways, a number of ways, that Congress can ameliorate loneliness
and its deleterious impacts on older adults' health and well-
being.
First, pass the SENIOR Act. Adding the term loneliness to
the Older Americans Act will allow and direct those funds to
ensure older adults are more socially connected. Second, and as
you know, the Older Americans Act serves as a vital cornerstone
for aging services but demands far out seed available
resources.
By increasing funding for Older Americans Act nutrition
programs and community-based resources like senior centers,
older adults can access structured opportunities for
socialization, supporting their overall well-being.
Additionally, targeted funding for rural aging interventions is
essential to address isolation and loneliness in areas with
limited transportation resources.
The Administration for Community Living's Commit to Connect
Program, which Congress created, is just one example of an
evidence-based model that can enhance and that should be
protected and expanded.
Third, strengthening and expanding intergenerational
initiatives, such as shared housing programs, mentorship
opportunities, and community volunteer projects have proven to
significantly reduce loneliness across generations. To
strengthen these bonds, evidence-based strategies can be
implemented to include socially friendly environments,
expanding community programs that connect diverse age groups,
and investing in local institutions that serve
intergenerational hubs.
Fourth, we must promote technology access in this country
for seniors. While technology holds significant potential to
mitigate loneliness, nearly 22 million senior--older adults
today lack broadband access.
To bridge this gap, leveraging telehealth, assisted
devices, online support groups, and expanded broadband access
are truly necessary to address this issue, and finally, of
course, Medicare plays a critically important role here in the
growing crisis--to address the growing crisis of loneliness and
isolation as well.
Medicare can, for example, ensure that the annual wellness
visit includes routine screenings for loneliness, expand
coverage for peer supports and hearing aids, support non-
emergency transportation opportunities through Medicare
Advantage, and other non-medical supports that can enhance
social connection and build social capital.
In addition to recommendations, today I am proud to
announce the launch of our organization's federal policy
priorities for social connection, a comprehensive framework
comprising a full 130 policy recommendations designed to foster
social connection and end the public health crisis.
Chairman Scott, Ranking Member Gillibrand, and members of
this Committee, the Aging Committee, addressing the epidemic of
loneliness among older adults is not only a moral imperative,
but it is a critical public health and economic necessity in
this country.
Together, we can build a future where connection, not
loneliness, defines the American experience for seniors. Thank
you so much for the opportunity to testify today. I look
forward to your questions. Thank you.
The Chairman. Thank you, Mr. MacPherson. Now, I would like
to welcome James Balda. Mr. Balda is the President and CEO of
Argentum, the leading national trade association serving
companies that own, operate, and support professionally managed
senior living communities.
Under his leadership, they have focused on critical
advocacy and action to support seniors. Thanks for being here
today. Please begin with your testimony.
STATEMENT OF JAMES BALDA, PRESIDENT
AND CEO, ARGENTUM, WASHINGTON, D.C.
Mr. Balda. [Technical problems]. Excuse me. Chairman Scott,
Ranking Member Gillibrand, and members of the Committee, thank
you for this opportunity. My name is James Balda, the President
and CEO of Argentum, the leading national association
representing senior living, including independent living,
assisted living, and memory care, where over two million
seniors are overwhelmingly satisfied with calling our
communities home.
Argentum commends you, Senator, and Senator Smith, and
Senator Warnock on the introduction of the SENIOR Act and for
holding this important hearing. You all know, which is why we
are here today, that loneliness is an epidemic among our
Nation's elderly.
As many as 50 percent experience it, and the physical,
mental, and cognitive consequences can be devastating and
overwhelming, particularly for those with some form of
dementia.
The toll of loneliness impacts an individual's quality of
life and adds an ever--escalating cost to our healthcare
system. As has already been mentioned, this former Surgeon
General outlined the health consequences of loneliness, and the
Harvard, Stanford AARP study also recognized the costs of that
loneliness.
The Alzheimer's Association has identified that loneliness
increases the risk of dementia by over 50 percent, which in
turn translates to over $230 billion in Medicare and Medicaid
expenses annually, which is projected to increase by over 200
percent by 2050.
While these data points are staggering, the personal impact
is often tragic, reducing the quality of life for seniors and
putting a strain on caregivers and loved ones, but there is a
commonsense solution, offering seniors greater opportunities
for support and engagement. Socialization is a crucial aspect
of healthy aging.
It promotes a sense of purpose and connection with others,
and significantly improves the mental, cognitive, and physical
health of seniors. We see this every day in senior living
communities, where residents become friends, and friends
ultimately become family.
Our assisted living model, which is predominantly private
pay and supports all activities of daily living, was created to
allow seniors to thrive. It strives to recognize the importance
of dignity, choice, and community to keep them living as
independently--for as long as possible and providing them with
a sense of purpose and belonging and providing them with a wide
range of social and interactive activities, such as gardening,
educational programs, tours, exercise classes, book clubs, and
so much more.
The social atmosphere of assisted living actually decreases
loneliness. A national survey of more than 130,000 assisted
living residents based on the UCLA loneliness score identified
that just 14 percent of seniors identify themselves as being
lonely living in an assisted living community compared to
nearly 30 percent in the broader community.
Just yesterday, U.S. News reported that about two-thirds of
seniors said loneliness or isolation contributed to a decline
in their health before they moved into a senior living
community, but that 61 percent of residents say their feelings
of loneliness or isolation improved after moving in.
Mr. Chairman, we believe our communities offer many
opportunities for seniors to combat loneliness, but we know
more can be done and more needs to be done outside of the four
walls of our buildings. That is why Argentum commends you on
taking the important step of introducing the SENIOR Act. This
bill will take critical steps to address the epidemic of senior
loneliness by promoting key programs specifically designed to
support seniors.
Additionally, the requirement to direct the Secretary of
HHS to focus on the importance of multi-generational
relationships to mental health and loneliness is incredibly
significant. Argentum is also pleased to support House
Resolution 1812, the Care Across Generations Act, a bipartisan
bill that will create opportunities for intergenerational
connection through the establishment of a grant program for
assisted living and long-term care settings to co-locate a
childcare facility with the senior community.
We believe the benefits to both seniors and children will
be invaluable, and I can speak firsthand to the value of
intergenerational programs, whether it is the experiences my
children have shared volunteering in a senior living community,
or through stories told to me by my wife about one of her first
jobs working in a preschool adjacent to an assisted living
community.
Then there is the benefits of pet therapy, when Buttercup
and Sugarplum, two golden retrievers, visit a memory care
center in Maryland and bring the room and residence to life. Or
the impact of music therapy on Mary, a lifelong Beatles fan who
today is often non-verbal until "Let It Be" starts playing and
she is quickly leading the room in song.
The World War II veteran who became isolated after losing
mobility, but after moving into a community, making friends,
and accessing physical therapy received a new lease on life.
While these are just a few stories I can share today, these
stories are commonplace in our communities.
Mr. Chairman, thank you for the hearing and for taking the
first steps to break the cycle of loneliness, and we look
forward to working with you and the Committee on this and other
critical issues.
The Chairman. Thank you, and thank you for what your
companies do for seniors. Now, I would like to welcome Suzanne
McCormick. She is the President and CEO of YMCA of the USA, the
National Resource Office for the Y.
Everyone of course knows the YMCA, operating in 10,000
communities across all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The
YMCA is a key community partner in combating senior loneliness.
Thanks for being here today and we look forward to your
testimony.
STATEMENT OF SUZANNE MCCORMICK, PRESIDENT
AND CEO, YMCA OF THE USA, TAMPA, FLORIDA
Ms. McCormick. Chairman Scott, Ranking Member Gillibrand,
and other distinguished members of the Committee, I want to
thank you for inviting me today. I am here representing the
2,600 YMCAs, which serve 10,000 communities across our country.
I am grateful for the opportunity to share the story of how
they connect and support our older adults every day.
At the Y, our mission is to strengthen communities by
connecting people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to
their potential, their purpose, and each other. This has been
at the core of who we are for 175 years, but today we know that
so many people are struggling to make these life-changing
connections, especially our seniors.
Forty percent of adults say they feel lonely sometimes or
even more than that, and the mortality rate of being socially
disconnected is similar to the impact of smoking 15 cigarettes
a day, which is greater than the impact associated with obesity
and inactivity.
The health risks for our older adults are heightened even
more because they are more likely to feel isolated and
disconnected than younger Americans. A bright spot, however, at
the Y, older adults find the support and meaningful
relationships they need to feel connected and healthy.
YMCAs engage 17 million Americans every year, and nearly
four million are over age 55, and five million are over 65.
Seniors make up one-quarter of our members. A few years ago,
the Y partnered with NORC at the University of Chicago to find
out if older adults report better quality of life and social
connectedness when they visit our facilities and participate in
our programs. Results of this study showed significant
increases in overall well-being and social connectedness.
They also showed a decrease in loneliness and improvements
in social well-being, spiritual well-being, physical health,
and mental health. The results were even better for older
adults who were able to engage more frequently in their Y.
Our programs not only help participants build friendships
and connections that we all need to thrive, but they also help
prevent, delay, or control chronic disease. Thanks to a 20--
year partnership with CDC, the Y is the leading in-person
provider of evidence-based chronic disease prevention and
management programs, which address issues like diabetes,
hypertension, arthritis, falls, and cancer.
These programs have been proven to improve health outcomes
and quality of life, and they often save health care dollars.
In fact, The Y is recognized for its work with the Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Innovation.
During a national study of 8,000 Medicare recipients, the
YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program saved $2,650 per
participant, while preventing or delaying diabetes among the
majority of participants. The Y is also the leading provider of
Medicare Advantage fitness benefits, larger than the next seven
providers combined, but for as much as we are able to
accomplish on our own because of our national scale and
community level credibility, the Y is always looking to
maximize our impact through partnerships. In communities across
the country, YMCAs collaborate with partners like senior
centers, libraries, and places of worship to reach and engage
more seniors. The Y looks forward to also partnering with the
Select Committee on Aging to improve both physical and
emotional well-being of our Nation's older adults.
We urge Congress to continue supporting the highest level
of funding for the CDC, to help the Y innovate our evidence-
based chronic disease prevention and control programs, to
uphold Medicare Advantage's ability to offer supplemental
benefits like fitness and socialization opportunities and
enable Medicaid to help low-income seniors improve their
physical and mental health by helping them access the Y and our
evidence-based programs.
Every dollar invested in community-based organizations like
YMCAs, organizations that are trusted and have on the ground
credibility, pays a dividend in the form of improved health and
wellness, especially for our older adults.
There are a thousand stories I could share but I will leave
you with just a few. There is Pam from Palm Harbor, Florida.
Her husband passed away, she lost her home in a hurricane, and
she has become a caregiver for her adult son. She called it the
darkest period of her life and said she didn't even want to get
out of bed in the morning. At the Y, she found friendly people
and opportunities to engage and get active. She says it is the
best thing she has ever done for herself.
In Phoenix, 86-year-old Gloria has a new bestie. That is
what she calls Lisa, a volunteer with the Y's Outreach Program
for Aging Seniors. Each week they go grocery shopping, they get
their hair done, and they have lunch together. Gloria says this
relationship helps her stay active and feel young.
Lastly, serving so many older adults creates employment
opportunities for them as well. Althea and Oscar, both in their
80's, work part time at their Y. She works at the front desk.
He is a greeter who gives tours and manages the coffee bar.
These jobs, they say, help them find fulfillment and purpose in
their lives.
On a personal note, I have had the great privilege of
meeting three Y members who bragged to me about celebrating
their 100th birthday with friends and family at their local Y,
their Y in Athens, Georgia, Kansas City, Missouri, and
Anchorage, Alaska.
It still warms my heart to remember the joy on their faces
when they told me all their friends who turned out to celebrate
with them at their Y. This is the magic of creating places,
experiences, and opportunities for people to genuinely connect
with each other. This is the magic of the Y. This is the magic
our seniors need more than ever.
In closing, there are YMCAs in every state represented by
the members of this Committee that are helping older adults
stay engaged and healthy every day. I would be happy to share
examples and submit them as part of the record today.
Again, Y's across the country want to be your partner.
Thank you for the opportunity today and thank you for your
leadership.
The Chairman. Thank you. We will take those and put them in
the record.
Ms. McCormick. Thank you.
The Chairman. Without objection, and thank you for being
here. Next, I would like to recognize Ranking Member Gillibrand
to introduce the next witness.
Senator Gillibrand. I would like to give Senator Warnock
the privilege since she is from Georgia.
Senator Warnock. Thank you, Ranking Member Gillibrand.
Thank you, Chair Scott, so grateful that we are hosting this
hearing today on such an important issue, this issue of
loneliness.
I look forward to our continued partnership and work,
including by passing the SENIOR Act, to address this issue, but
while I am working in the Senate to improve access to these
programs, I am in awe of how Georgians back home are stepping
up every day to serve their communities.
Grateful for the work that we get to do here, but it is
really the folks on the ground who are the tip of the spear, so
today I am so very proud to introduce a Georgian, Ms. Tori
Strawter-Tanks. Tori has served as Director of Clayton County
Senior Services for the past 12 years.
As Director, Tori oversees five centers and manages the
Clayton County aging program, which provides essential services
to seniors, including home-delivered meals and transportation.
Beyond her role in Clayton County, she is the President and
Founder of the Georgia Association of Senior Centers, so as
someone who has long been committed to this work, Tori thank
you for the work that you do every day for seniors all across
our state but particularly in Clayton County.
We are all very, very grateful that you are here today to
share your experience and your perspective.
STATEMENT OF TORI STRAWTER-TANKS, DIRECTOR,
CLAYTON COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES
DEPARTMENT, JONESBORO, GEORGIA
Ms. Strawter-Tanks. Thank you so much for that
introduction. Thank you for the opportunity to speak before you
today. I am Tori Strawter-Tanks, and I have the privilege of
serving as Director of Senior Services in Clayton County,
Georgia, and as Senator Warnock said, I am the President of the
Georgia Association of Senior Centers.
I am honored to be here today to discuss a critical issue
facing older adults across the country, social isolation and
the vital role senior centers and other aging programs play in
combating it.
Senior centers are hubs of a high-impact exercise, cultural
engagement, physical wellness, and lifelong learning. The Older
Americans Act, it contributes funding to senior centers and
other important aging services.
Protecting that funding is critical to ensuring that older
adults continue to have access to the services that I have
spent over half of my life carrying out. Across Georgia and
throughout the Nation, senior centers provide vital programs
that enhance the lives of older adults, keeping them socially
engaged and supporting their overall well-being.
These programs include health, wellness, aquatic,
technology, fitness classes, lifelong learning, theatrical
productions, cultural arts programs, trips, and also evidence-
based programs.
These programs play a vital role in improving seniors'
physical health, reducing fall risk, preventing chronic
disease, enhancing mental well-being, fostering creativity,
promoting social engagement, strengthening community
connections, and bridging the generational digital divide.
At Frank Bailey Senior Center in Riverdale, Georgia, we saw
firsthand the extraordinary potential of older adults when Ms.
Dorothy Steele who started acting at the age of 80. Ms. Steel,
she took the stage, and she was a Hollywood sensation. She went
on to become a Hollywood sensation, starring as a tribal elder
in Marvel's Black Panther and Black Panther 2, Wakanda Forever,
proving that dreams do not have expiration dates.
Ms. Steel has appeared in several other movies. You can
Google her to see her entire amazing body of work. Her story is
a testament to the power of senior centers to unlock potential
and rewrite the narrative of aging. Another essential service
that senior centers provide is congregate meals.
For many older adults, these meals aren't just about food,
you see. They are about connection, dignity, and community.
Congregate meals ensure that seniors receive balanced,
nutritious food, reducing the risk of malnutrition and diet-
related illnesses. They combat isolation by providing
opportunities for older adults to gather, talk, and form
meaningful relationships.
For some seniors, this may be the only hot meal they
receive in a day. Without adequate funding for congregate meal
programs, like these provided by the Older Americans Act, too
many older adults risk going hungry or becoming further
isolated. Along the same line, home-delivered meals also
provide nutritious food, social interaction, and wellness
checks for older adults who may not be able to leave their
homes.
These services are especially critical for those who are
aging alone without family or other community support.
Additionally, transportation services provided through
assistance from federal funding help seniors to get to their
medical appointments, buy fresh and healthy foods at the
grocery store, and to see their friends, rather than being
isolated at home because they are not able to drive.
Beyond their social and emotional benefits, senior centers
and other aging programs save our economy billions of dollars
annually. Research has shown that healthy, active seniors who
participate in community-based programs reduce healthcare costs
significantly, both for themselves and for taxpayers, and you
know what? We cannot begin to overlook the sandwich generation.
These are those that are caring for aging parents while
supporting their children. As the senior population grows,
working caregivers face mounting financial, emotional, and
logistical challenges. When older adults stay active, healthy,
and engaged, it eases the burden on their families. Without
proper investment in senior centers and community-based
services, caregiving falls heavily on adult children already
juggling careers, finances, and family life.
Access to social engagement, nutritious meals, health
programs, and transportation supports not just seniors, but
their families. It impacts workforce retention and the economy.
Yet despite their proven benefits, senior centers remain
underfunded, leaving many older adults struggling with barriers
like transportation, awareness, and the lack of investment.
If we are really serious about combating senior isolation
and improving public health, we must, one, expand funding for
senior centers and other aging services. Improve transportation
access, especially to those in rural areas so older adults can
actively participate in community life.
Strength in digital inclusion for seniors so they can stay
connected in a technology-driven world. Recognize senior
centers--I am going to say this one more time. Recognize senior
centers as essential infrastructures to support aging in place,
health, and well-being. Invest in meal programs to fight food
insecurity, combat isolation, and promote nutrition for older
adults.
Support caregivers by ensuring seniors have access to
services that promote independence. Social isolation is not
just an individual problem. It is a public health crisis with
consequences as severe as smoking and obesity, but senior
centers and programs like congregate and home delivery meals
offer a proven solution, helping older adults not only stay
socially engaged but thrive in ways they never imagined.
When we invest in senior centers, when we invest in senior
centers, we are not just enriching lives. We are saving money,
we are strengthening families, we are supporting working
caregivers and ensuring a better future for generations to
come. Thank you for your time and commitment to this issue. I
look forward to your questions and to working together to build
a stronger and more connected future for our Nation's seniors.
The Chairman. Thank you, Ms. Strawter-Tanks, and thanks for
what you do.
Senior centers down in Florida, and they are fun to go
visit, so there is a lot of action. Now, we will go to
questions. Let's start with Senator Moody.
Senator Moody. Thank you Senator Scott and Ranking Member
Gillibrand. We appreciate you holding this hearing. I think
that the two of you in charge, I don't know that we have ever
seen so much activity on this Committee.
I love it. It has been--protecting seniors within the State
of Florida, certainly while I was the Attorney General in the
State of Florida and growing up with a mother who dedicated her
entire career to helping seniors, low--income seniors. This is
an important committee, and this is an important hearing.
I appreciate all of you taking time to be here. Certainly,
it is nice to see not only our sister state and neighbor state
people from Georgia, but from Florida as well. It was so nice
to see Ms. McCormick from Tampa Bay, which is my home.
It is great to see a friendly face being here only a little
over a month. I crave folks from the Sunshine State coming up
here, and I remind them when I left and came up from the
Sunshine State, so much leadership came up here to Washington
that it snowed in Florida.
It was crazy, but this is a great hearing, and certainly
the leadership of Senator Scott does not go unnoticed. He has
always been one to dig into the details of really complex
problems and I have always admired that about him, not only as
the Governor of Florida, but certainly as a Senator.
What is remarkable to me is hearing from each of you--and
each of you pointed out very significant ways we could address
isolation of seniors, improve the health of seniors, and it
touched a lot on funding. Protecting funding, certainly
important. All of us on this Committee understand that, but
additional funding.
I know that so many of us, whether you are on the
Republican side of the aisle or the Democratic side of the
aisle, so many of us I take very seriously this responsibility
we have to make sure that the fiscal health of this Nation
isn't driven right off a cliff.
We have been seeing so much of that in the last few years
with pandemic spending never returning to normalcy. We ramped
it up during a time of emergency and was never backed off, and
so, many of us are struggling with, OK, we have got to face the
reality of we have very limited taxpayer funds to work with,
and as I am hearing from each of you, the answer is, in many
respects--one of your answers, I don't want to limit it to
that, is funding, and what I have been so interested in--and
yes, I understand that, and I am glad that you are here, and I
am glad you are advocating for that.
What I have seen work so well throughout communities,
including with organizations like the Y and others, if they
have identified ways to combat problems that might not be
asking for more money.
For example, I have seen--I heard about putting daycares,
and I know that is attached to a grant, but the idea of putting
a daycare within a senior living community and what that might
do just by being creative and thinking outside the box and
planning programs that put these two together in a way that
might benefit both.
I have seen high school seniors around the Nation come up
with community service projects. Number one, to satisfy
graduation rates, but also it looks really good to colleges
when you are applying and showing what you do that are creating
programs to volunteer with seniors, and programs to help them
cleanup, or help take them places, or volunteer at senior
community centers.
I think that not only helps the seniors and addresses
isolation among our seniors, but I think in a young person's
world where they are seeking validation, and inspiration, and
teachings, and modeling through an empty influence of social
media, I think it is so great that they are now spending time
with people who have lived a life and experienced the great
joys of life, and the tribulations and challenges of life, and
maybe have overcome them, or can warn about downfalls or risks.
I think there is a mutually beneficial thing there too, and
I will start with you, Ms. McCormick. Are there any programs
like that, that the Y is fostering, that may not be asking for
large amounts of money, but that are facilitating the
communication or the creation of these outside the box programs
so that both age groups, young and old, benefit?
Ms. McCormick. Without question. I do appreciate it, it
does feel often when any of us come to Washington, all we are
asking for is money. I think one of the things I would like to
highlight as an example is in our universe of Ys, one of our
strategies to increase services is through partnerships, and
often through public-private partnerships.
We see many more YMCAs around the country finding private
partners, often their healthcare providers, to come into their
space and serve clients together, so leveraging resources that
exist in the community outside of Government funding.
I think that is something that we have to continue to push
for, and we definitely see that in regards to serving seniors.
The other nugget I heard in your comments is community service,
and without question, we are an organization that is built on
volunteerism.
The ability to bring volunteers in to deliver--but, you
know, it is a balance, and I think that is what we are all
striving for is how--what is the way that we can all contribute
something so that we can leverage our gifts and what we can
bring to achieve shared outcomes.
Senator Moody. Thank you, Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Moody. Now, I would like
to recognize Ranking Member Gillibrand.
Senator Gillibrand. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I really
appreciate everyone's testimony. Thank you so much for being
experts in this and caring so much about our older adults. I
really, really appreciate it.
Ms. Strawter-Tanks, the goal--first of all, thank you so
much for being here and testifying. In your testimony, you
mentioned that you run various senior centers which are the
setting for the congregate meals.
Can you describe the ways congregate meals have improved
the health of and reduced social isolation for older adults in
your centers? And where do you get your funding for congregate
meals, and are there any innovative ways to fund congregate
meals that you have thought of?
Ms. Strawter-Tanks. Yes, so inside of our senior centers,
we offer congregate meals, and right now, our congregate meal
program is funded through the Older Americans Act funding, and
our seniors, they come--they also receive transportation to get
to our centers to get congregate meals.
Right now we are exploring ways that we can come up with
better ideas to provide meals to them because we have faced
issues where funding has been cut. Our county is an amazing
county and our county supplements our congregate meal programs
whenever there are cuts or fluctuations with the budget.
Right now we are just really exploring how we can be
prepared in case something happens where we can't provide those
congregate meals, but our congregate meal clients, they come to
our center, and they also receive some form of case management
where our staff is actually meeting with them, and talking to
them, and finding out what their needs are, because sometimes
it is a little bit more than just the meal, but we do know that
the meal is really important for our clients that come for
congregate meals.
Senator Gillibrand. Can you--would you imagine if we asked
people who are on SNAP benefits if you could use your EBT card
to pay for congregate meals? Do you think that would be a
useful opportunity for settings that offer it?
Ms. Strawter-Tanks. I think that would be an amazing
setting, especially in our side of our senior centers. Our
senior centers have full cafeterias where we have a contract
with, you know, local restaurants.
I think that would be a really great benefit if we could
have that because some of our seniors do not qualify for
congregate meals, and so, they do have to pay for their meals,
but again, Clayton County does an amazing job with our senior
centers.
Our senior centers are not underfunded. They are actually
funded very well. However, our meal program is kind of
underfunded because we need more funds to provide services to
those seniors who need meals.
Senator Gillibrand. Then, you know, in New York, we have so
many good--in God's Love We Deliver, we have Meals on Wheels,
we have all these different types of organizations that are
willing to bring homebound seniors a cooked meal at least once
or twice a week.
What we have heard is that that sometimes is the only
person who has visited them all week. It is the only person who
checks in on them to make sure they are okay, taking their
medicine, having heat on in the apartment. What is your
experience with home delivery of meals, and why is that
important for your constituencies?
Ms. Strawter-Tanks. Home delivered meals are so important.
It is even greater than just that human contact. When the Meals
on Wheels driver comes to the door, all of our seniors who
receive home delivered meals also receive case management.
Again, someone is actually talking to them, finding out
what their need is. Talking to them about are they having
issues with falling, do they need more than a meal, and just
connecting them with resources.
It starts there. Once a Meals on Wheels driver is assigned
to that senior, that Meals on Wheels driver is actually
checking on them to make sure that everything is OK with the
senior as well, and then in our county, we also do things
around the holidays. We take Christmas food to them.
We take turkeys to them. It is truly a collaboration of the
community and our county. We pull together to make sure that
those home delivered meal clients have everything that they
need socially and beyond the meal.
Senator Gillibrand. Ms. McCormick, do you have a
perspective on either of those two questions?
Ms. McCormick. I was just thinking as I was hearing you
talk, I was recalling a visit that I made to Buffalo, New York,
actually, and it was--it was on Halloween, and they did a
congregate meal lunch on the gym floor of one of the Y's there
in Buffalo in a historically underserved community, and it was
packed.
In addition to the food, which I went and met with the
staff, and I heard it is--when I went to meet with the staff
and I heard the benefits are always two-fold. It is nutritional
you know, first and foremost, but it is also the ability to
bring seniors together in a setting where they can be with each
other, where they can make friends.
In this particular forum, they had an opportunity to meet
with at least four of their public elected officials to talk
about what was going on in the city of Buffalo, so I think it
is always two-fold. It is always about nutrition and making
sure that that the health aspect, physical health is being met,
but as importantly, it is always about the social wellness that
congregate feeding--or it is not feeding, it is congregate
dining because it is usually a very festive atmosphere, so I
think, you know, we see that too in the Y.
Senator Gillibrand. Thank you. Thank you both. Thank you
all.
The Chairman. Senator Justice.
Senator Justice. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I haven't had the
opportunity to be here, you know, with different committees
that we had to go to and everything, and I didn't hear your
testimonies. I just caught the tail end of yours. It was great
and everything, but I would like to say just this.
You know, I am one of the new kids on the block. You know,
I am a new kid that came here with white hair, and if you show
up with white and you are a new kid, you are here for a reason
other than just maybe some self-satisfying reason for yourself.
You see, I don't want anything. I don't want a thing, but I can
tell you what I really do want beyond anything for myself is I
want to do goodness.
I want to do goodness absolutely for everybody that I can
possibly touch. I meet up with being a patriot, but I would
read just this, "breaking the cycle of senior loneliness,
strengthening family and community support." I am going to tell
you just this, in my State of West Virginia, you see plenty of
loneliness.
I don't know how it gets any worse. That is all there is to
it. Let me just say just this and then I will ask a couple of
real quick questions. Again, to me, our seniors need so much
more than just contact with their seniors.
You know, at the end of the day, they need kids involved.
They need animals involved--dogs. They absolutely need to be
able to give of their wisdom. You see, there is so many out
there that really want their wisdom, and they want to give it
so bad it is unbelievable because they want to feel worth,
worth in what they are doing.
You know, we can have lots and lots of meetings, and we can
try to move the ball, but I am telling you just this from the
bottom of my heart, if you are speaking of loneliness and you
are speaking of our seniors, we have got to do a lot more. We
have got to do a lot more than we are doing.
We can absolutely, and I hate to say this in any way, but
we can just call them seniors. You are a senior. You are a
senior. For God's sake the living, I am a senior, and before
you know it, we have become almost labeled or pigeonholed. I am
not a senior. I am Jim Justice.
They are individuals, and they should be loved and
cherished in every single way, and we should be trying to help
in every way. For God's sake the living, they have given us
everything, everything, and they still stand ready to give us
more.
Again, I didn't hear your testimony. I can ask you a
question like, you know, all the things we hear about, whether
it be the phones, or the internet, and everything we hear
negative about it, can we use that in a way to really help us
do better? And the last thing I will tell you is just this, and
I will open up to you and let any of you that wants to answer
the question to answer it.
I would say to all of us, to all of us, to our Ranking
Member, to this great Chairman, to all those that are on this
Committee that have come and gone and everything, I would say,
net--net, we better get at it doing more, because we are
losing, we are losing our knowledge, and for crying out loud,
our seniors, that I wish to goodness we didn't even use that
name, but our seniors are really wanting to give to all of us.
They have already given so much. I say this in the military
over and over, but our military of all, of all, they absolutely
give so much and ask so little. They have done it, and done it,
and done it. We have got to do something about it, so anyway,
you don't have to answer my questions because I didn't hear
your testimony, so anyway, but I love you for being here. Thank
you so much.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Justice. Mr. MacPherson,
we know that criminals prey on lonely seniors, making them more
susceptible to fraud and scams. Can you speak to the connection
between social isolation and the increased risk of being
targeted or falling victim to scams?
Mr. MacPherson. Yes. Mr. Chairman, thank you for the
question, and it is a significant issue in this country.
Studies show that socially isolated seniors are twice as likely
to fall victim to scams compared to those with more regular
social connections, and that is why holding this hearing is so
critically important here in the U.S. Senate.
Loneliness is linked to 40 percent increased risk of
cognitive decline, as we know, which leads older adults to be
more susceptible in this country. I do want to go back to the
Older Americans Act. You know, a fraction of the federal
budget. It adds a pretty--fairly small amount of money but
high-impact dollars.
A critically important component of the Older Americans
Act, of course, is focusing on elder abuse and protecting our
seniors, so we want to make sure that we continue that funding.
That we reauthorize the Older Americans Act. I also think, you
know, the previous Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, really
took this issue on, and released a report in 2023 that our
organization was very much involved with.
We sort of--he put an idea forward that we should have
connection in all policies, right, so whether it be healthcare
policy, whether it be labor, pick your poison, we need to
infuse connection in everything that we are doing in this
country, and Senator Justice, that is the only way that we are
going to have a comprehensive solution to a very complex
problem.
Thank you for the question, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you. Mr. Balda, sort of like our three
states, has a huge senior population, so naturally, there are
larger amounts of senior living communities. What is one clear
link between senior living communities and healthy aging?
Mr. Balda. Thank you for that question, Mr. Chairman. When
you think about what goes on in our buildings, at its heart, it
is the social determinants of health. It is nutrition. It is
physical activity. It is mental and cognitive activity. It is
socialization.
It is all of those twenty-four hours a day, seven days a
week, and that has enormous benefit to the health outcomes of
the residents that live in our buildings. A study done by NORC,
you had mentioned NORC earlier, took a look at the frailty of
individuals right before they moved into our communities, and
right after they moved into our communities, and then over a
period of time.
What they found was right before they moved in, they were
on a decline, and that persisted for a short period of time
after they moved in, but then it leveled off and over the next
several months it started to improve in terms of their frailty,
and that is because of the activity and the engagements we do
on a regular basis.
I think the issue we need to figure out, and there were
questions earlier about, you know, funding and such, we are
predominantly a private pay model, and I think as a country we
need to figure out how to help more seniors access that model,
whether it is in the four walls of our building or it is in
their own private residence.
We think a lot about what we call sort of the forgotten
middle of seniors in this country, the seniors that don't
qualify for Medicaid and might not quite be able to pay for the
current assisted living product, and we estimate that there is
going to be more than 16 million of those in the coming
decades.
How are they going to get the care and the services they
need? How are they going to get access to the nutrition and the
physical activity? And we think there is a lot that we can do
to support that. We just need to be able to identify a model
that is actually affordable for those individuals. There is
also the concern that we have about the workforce in the long
term and who is going to care for all of these seniors.
We have proven that our model works. It saves Medicare
money. It saves Medicaid money, and I think there is much more
that we can do to get those types of services and supports to
more seniors in the country.
The Chairman. Thank you. Ms. McCormick, with your
experience being President of YMCA, what real life instances of
physical health linking to mental health and reducing
loneliness among seniors have you seen?
Ms. McCormick. Well, I will share a Tampa example with you,
because we have already had the Florida love today. You know,
it is very hard not to see the connection when you go into a Y.
The seniors that I encountered have such a vibrancy and energy
to them.
One of the first people I met when I took this job, which
was about three and a half years ago, he reached out to me on
LinkedIn. His name is Danny Ferry. He is a retired Army
veteran, and he has been--he had been actively participating in
the Y in a swim program to rehabilitate a knee injury, and so,
his initial engagement with the Y was around a health benefit.
He fell in love with the sense of belonging that it offered
him. It gave him a place to go and feel like he could make
friends. He has become an Uber volunteer with the Y. We held a
large national fundraising conference down in Tampa about three
years ago, and every day he was there dressed as a pirate with
a parrot on his shoulder, serving as a greeter and giving
directions.
He continues to reach out to me and tells me that the Y
gave him a second chance after having just an incredible career
in the Army and then transitioning out. He now has a sense of
purpose.
What I see every time I go into a Y, we see seniors who
come in potentially with the goal of working on their health or
their physical activity, those are often the same thing, but
the added benefit from their participation is that they are
seen as people, and they make friends, and they have a joyful
time, and those two things go hand in hand in almost every case
I have seen.
I could tell you story after story of seniors. Walk into a
Y. At around 10:30 a.m., they will either be in the pool
exercising as a group, they will either be doing chair
aerobics, or they will be socializing around the coffee clutch
after they are done with their activities.
Sometimes it is hard to get them out of the Y just because
they want to stay. We have our own version of a senior center
some days.
The Chairman. Give me some--what are some of your important
programs you think impact seniors?
Ms. McCormick. Some of our chronic disease prevention
programs. We have programs that focus on arthritis mitigation.
Diabetes prevention is one of our strongest signature programs.
We have incredible results in that program. We have blood
pressure self-monitoring program.
We have a cancer survivorship program, and we also have
many wives who participate in falls prevention training with
seniors, so it really covers the gamut of chronic disease--you
know, the whole portfolio of chronic diseases many Ys are
participating in, and I would say almost every Y in Florida is
very engaged in that work.
The Chairman. Ms. Strawter-Tanks, can you give me some
stories of how the seniors' activity in one of your centers is
impacting--reduce the cost of Medicare and Medicaid?
Ms. Strawter-Tanks. Yes, so inside our senior centers, we
have wonderful opportunities. The average age of our staff
inside our senior centers is around 50 or 55, so seniors
actually come to our centers looking for social engagement,
looking for a meal, and some of them actually receive
employment opportunities inside our senior centers. All of our
exercise programs inside our seniors--are high impact, which
actually improves their quality of life.
We do fall prevention classes. We do evidence-based
classes. We do--it is a whole gambit of different activities
and programs that we provide to keep seniors socially engaged
and to improve the quality of life and their health.
The Chairman. Mr. MacPherson, what can we do to strengthen
community ties and protect seniors from these bad actors?
Mr. MacPherson. There is a lot we can do. You know, the
community-based interventions that we have heard some of them
here today are just critically important. I think we need to
take a settings approach, Mr. Chairman, to this issue, whether
you are talking about health centers, community centers,
housing, schools, workplaces, places of worship.
Our 130 policy recommendations that we have, that we just
released today, addresses all of those settings, and ideas for
the Federal Government, but also states, to invest in a--as I
said, a comprehensive approach to a really challenging problem.
Again, going back to the Older Americans Act.
It is just critically important that we protect that
funding, expand that funding. It is a drop in the bucket in the
federal budget that has an outsized impact on seniors across
the country. The last thing I will say is that we have touched
on intergenerational today, but I think it is worth emphasizing
that.
Ranking Member Gillibrand, you have an extraordinary
program in your state, DOROT, which is a member of our Steering
Committee, that receives funding from the Older Americans Act
and private sources as well, that has a whole range of
intergenerational programming. That has been very successful in
not just addressing social isolation and loneliness, but also
addressing the well-being of the communities that they serve.
This is a complex issue, and there is a lot of different
ways to address it. At the Foundation for Social Connection
Action Network, again, we have got almost 70 national
organizations involved in our work to come together to find a
whole range of solutions, so thank you for the question.
The Chairman. If you have had 20 years of work in the
healthcare policy space, what do you think is the most
effective, or one of the most effective, I am sure there is a
lot, of initiatives that combat loneliness among seniors?
Mr. MacPherson. I really appreciate that question. 20
years. Look----
The Chairman. Is that true?
Mr. MacPherson. It is true. Thank you for saying that. My
hairline said it.
The Chairman. At least you have some.
Mr. MacPherson. You know, I will say raising the visibility
of this issue is the most important aspect from my perspective,
and this hearing is a critically important way to do that.
Look, there is still a lot of stigma in this country around
being socially isolated and, or lonely.
The way that we break down those barriers and allow people
to be more connected at a very fundamental level is to talk
about it, so, that is number one. Number two, as I said the
former Surgeon General I think did an extraordinary job in
raising the visibility of this issue and releasing a number of
really thoughtful reports.
Went all over the country and talked about this. I will
give you some more specifics though in health care policy, Mr.
Chairman. Medicare Advantage--in 2018 Congress passed the
Chronic Act, okay, and the Chronic Act was widely bipartisan,
and what it did was allow Medicare Advantage plans in
supplemental benefits to offer non-medical benefits.
Things like nutrition services, home-based palliative care,
non-emergency transportation. If I think back over, you know,
20 years of doing this work, that was critically important--as
Medicare Advantage was growing in the program, it was
critically important that Congress gave them, and the Trump
Administration at the time as well, gave the plans the
opportunity to provide benefits that were non-medical in
nature.
We would love to see that expanded. We would love to see
hearing reimbursement, for example, for hearing devices and
hearing moved into original Medicare, which would create more
space in supplemental benefits for more non-medical approaches.
Those are just some samples--examples, Mr. Chairman, of
things that I have seen over the years I think have been really
impactful.
The Chairman. Do you think the SENIOR Acts would help
groups that you work with fight loneliness?
Mr. MacPherson. I mean, look, absolutely, so the previous
reauthorization of the Older Americans Act in 2020 included the
word--added, I should say, the word social isolation. This is
before the pandemic, by the way. Added the word social
isolation to the Older Americans Act and attached about $250
million for the--for ACL to implement programming.
That programming was wildly successful, and I would argue
saved the Federal Government money. By adding loneliness, Mr.
Chairman, that allows the resources in the Older Americans Act
and senior centers, nutrition programs, etcetera, to direct
funding at the public health epidemic crisis, so we are 100
percent supportive. We are excited to advocate for it and get
more co--sponsors, and we are eager to see it pass the
Congress.
The Chairman. Ranking Member Gillibrand, do you have some
questions?
Senator Gillibrand. Mr. Balda, can you talk a little bit
about the role that insurance companies play in helping our
seniors? Can you talk a little bit about what do you feel
health care companies could do to help communities congregate
care settings, ensure older adults are less isolated, and
address maybe any of the issues we have been talking about from
the insurance perspective?
Mr. Balda. Sure, absolutely, and thank you for the
question, and unfortunately, over the last several years, we
have seen the long-term care insurance market decline.
I think if there is a way for us to determine how to shore
that market up so that more people can have access to long-term
care insurance policies, that can help support the isolation
issue in the long term in terms of giving them access to
supports and services, whether it is in their private residence
or whether it is in one of our communities.
I think programs like the YMCA have in terms of getting
physical engagement for those that live outside of our settings
and are supported through Medicare Advantage plans and things
of that sort are incredibly helpful. Our communities already
offer a lot of that just directly within their four walls in
terms of activities in our pools, and activities in our gym
centers, and yoga for seniors and such.
Anything insurance companies can do to offer supports and
services, like the Silver Sneakers program is one example,
would be incredibly helpful, but I really think figuring out a
way to shore up the long-term care insurance market would be
incredibly helpful so that people can access those supports and
services in any setting.
Senator Gillibrand. Thank you. Mr. MacPherson, you touched
upon intergenerational programs to reduce loneliness. Can you
talk about which ones are most effective, what makes them
effective, how they are funded, and what suggestions you have
for this Committee?
Mr. MacPherson. They are funded from a whole range of
sources, but as I said, the Older Americans Act is a critical
source of funding.
You know, they really run the gamut. I would love to submit
for the record some case studies, Senator Gillibrand, of some
of the most effective programming and meet with your staff
about that and kind of walk you through it.
I know that DOROT, for example, has the Genuine Connections
Program, which is actually a virtual volunteer program for
teens and adults over the age of 65, where they run workshops
through Zoom and have social connectivity through that. Chess,
art, etcetera. I am the son of a hospice volunteer.
I think that the hospice volunteer model could be a very
effective way--that we have in communities across the country,
could be a very effective way to address social isolation and
loneliness, not just for seniors, but also for younger
populations as well.
We have got an infrastructure out there. The question is,
how do we leverage it in a thoughtful way?
Senator Gillibrand. Yes. Well, one of the ideas that my 16-
year-old son had was--they have 10 hours of public service
required every year at their school, so we came up with an idea
that him and his friends would visit the local senior center
and just spend hours upon hours getting to know different
seniors and being part of their lives.
I also thought about this risk that our seniors fear and
are subjected to all day long, which is the scams, the digital
scams, the phone scams, the online scams, you know, clicking
the wrong button. I think our young people would be so helpful
in creating digital awareness, digital hygiene for our older
people because they are so native, and they can explain--
certainly my sons explain to my mother all the time what not to
click on and why.
I think that could be the future of a great partnership,
but I do hope you will keep exploring that and we would be
delighted to receive your testimony and the studies because I
think that intergenerational connection--a lot of our kids
during COVID became deeply disconnected.
They missed two, three whole years of maturity and
development, and I think our seniors could help our younger
people learn how to be more connected and learn how to, you
know, don't look at your phone, talk to your friend, you know,
what are you missing in those social interactions.
I think the wisdom that our older generation has is
extremely meaningful, so, I appreciate the work you do there,
and then last, for Suzanne, I just wanted to ask you one more
question about falls and social isolation. You know, every
senior that I have talked to is worried about falling, so they
buy the best sneakers. They try to take, you know, small steps,
but they are very afraid to go out when the weathers bad. They
are afraid--if they have had a fall, they don't want to go out
at all.
I know a lot of older people who won't drive at night, a
lot of older people who won't engage at all at night, because
they are afraid of falling, and this is a question for anybody
actually. If you have any ideas about how do we prevent falls,
how do we prevent fear, and how do we build confidence and
allow for social interactions so that they don't--not engage
because of that fear.
Ms. McCormick. Excuse me, thank you for the question. I
will start by building on something Mr. MacPherson said. I
think part of the challenge and the opportunity before us is
awareness about the opportunities to learn about falls
prevention.
In New York State, I am happy to say that we--our YMCAs are
engaged in a 4-year plan to enroll over 2,500 New Yorkers in
fall prevention programs, so we have the capability, but we
have to create greater awareness and reduce the stigma.
I think the Y wants to be a helpful partner in being that
place where seniors feel like it is safe to come. In the summer
months or the fall months to learn falls prevention so that
they can continue to come. I do know, like the hard winters in
the Northeast, but we are making progress in New York.
As I said, it is a four-year plan. We have 40 new
instructors, and they are going to be taking the falls
prevention program outside of the Y's where seniors are
meeting, so into senior centers, churches, and other community
locations.
We hope this will prove to be a good model, that we can
meet seniors where they are. I think that is probably one of
our great opportunities, not expecting them to come to us, and
so we look forward to reporting back to you on the work that is
happening in New York that hopefully can be scaled in--across
the country.
I think it is when we get to seniors, when they participate
in the program, when they can learn falls prevention, we can
take that fear away, and then they can engage in ongoing social
connection activities with other community members.
Senator Gillibrand. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Senator Justice.
Senator Justice. Well, I will end, and I will end really
quickly on my part, and Mr. Chairman, thank you, sir, and I
will just say just this. In West Virginia, we value families
like you can't imagine, and absolutely, the foundational part
of our families and our culture is our families. There is no
question whatsoever.
Now, let me just go back just a second and just say just
this. You know, there was a few years ago that in West
Virginia--I always called the voters Toby and Edith, and I
would say just this, and this reflects on loneliness, but let's
say Aunt Edith wants to have a picnic, and she wants all of her
grandkids to be there.
We were in a situation in West Virginia a few years back
where to be perfectly honest many, many, many folks left that
had those kids because they had to go someplace else to find a
job, and absolutely, if you haven't seen the ramifications of
loneliness, then you have really missed something because it is
sadness beyond belief.
I really think just this, that we are plenty smart enough
to solve this riddle. We are not doing enough. We have got to
go back to what I said just a little while ago. We have got to
get kids involved. We have got to get dogs involved.
We have got to--I mean, for God's sake the living, you just
think, and many of you probably don't know this, but if you
know who Babydog is, honest to goodness, I can't tell you the
number of places that I have gone to senior centers that
absolutely--they don't care about me being there. They wanted
Babydog to be there.
You know, absolutely, I tell you, we can solve this riddle,
and all of us--and if we don't, shame on us. All of us should
be willing to take a blood oath that we are going to fix it. We
are going to fix this. I mean, there is so much that can be
done, and absolutely, again, if you have not seen and felt and
touched loneliness, then absolutely you have been very, very,
very lucky because it is sadness like you can't imagine, so all
I would say is just this. My question would be, what can we do?
What can we do beyond--I mean, I know your answer is going to
be--you know, it is almost like you go in a restaurant and
say--you know, the waitress comes over and says, sir, how do
you like your eggs? Do you like your eggs scrambled or fried?
And you say, yes, absolutely.
In this situation, we have got to say yes to all these
ways, all these ways to make things better. These people have
given so much, it is off the chart, and so, I want to listen
real quickly if anybody on the panel wants to take the
question.
My question would be just centered around, you know, in
West Virginia, those values are unbelievable. Tell me anything
and everything you can possibly tell me in a matter of just a
few seconds that will make it better. Please, any of you.
Mr. Balda. Thank you, Senator, for that question and those
sentiments, and love the idea of pets and just so you know,
almost all of our communities allow pets. In most cases, either
the residents have pets or the communities themselves have
pets, which then become pets for everybody else in the
building.
Senator Justice. Babydoll is not a pet.
Mr. Balda. Well, exactly. Fantastic point.
Senator Justice. I mean, Babydoll is one of us.
Mr. Balda. They bring any, any animal, right. It brings
life to the entire community, and it is things like that, and
it is things like music therapy, and it is the
intergenerational, you know, connections that we have been
talking about, and I think there is not a single solution to
this crisis.
I think there is elements of a solution among all of us
here, all serving sort of different parts of the community, and
learning from each other on what works and what doesn't, I
think is a tremendous opportunity, and even before we started,
we were sort of sharing ways to potentially partner with each
other on some things.
Senator Gillibrand, back to your question about falls, you
know, I think that is a terrible concern for seniors and I see
it in my loved ones, and I can only tell you, in our
communities, you know, one of the first things that happens
when somebody comes in, they go through an assessment.
Oftentimes we identify that it has been lack of nutrition,
lack of exercise. Needs some physical therapy. Oftentimes it is
medication, on too many medications, and having to adjust that
regimen, but it goes beyond that. It is also the setting in
which they live, and does it have the right flooring? Does it
have the appropriate lighting?
There is a whole host of those, regardless of whether they
live in our buildings or others, but I think technology is also
a crucial role in that as well, in terms of being able to
identify when somebody has fallen if they live on their own.
I can tell you personally, my mom was an hour away from me,
and she fell, and she sat there until I could come and pick her
up because she was too proud to call for help, and so, it is a
terrible need that we need to fill, and we are part of the
solution, and I think all of us here are part of the solution.
I commend you for this hearing and bringing us all together
to work on it together, so, thank you.
Ms. McCormick. Senator, I would respond and say, I think
that you have heard today--you have heard a lot of tactical
activities, things that we can do to provide, but I think what
you have said that has touched me is this is about cultural
recommitment to a belief in our responsibility to seniors.
At the Y, we have four core values. They are caring,
honesty, respect, and responsibility, and I think this
Committee is--has a huge opportunity to continue to elevate the
responsibility that every American has to every American person
who happens to be over the age of 55 or 60. I won't say older
adult or seniors.
I think it is an opportunity, again, for us to raise
awareness and recommit to the responsibility that we have for
those who have lived wonderful lives and still are living
wonderful lives that we can all learn from.
Senator Justice. Well, thank you so much for all you do
every day. Let's just do more.
The Chairman. All right, I want to thank Ranking Member
Gillibrand for being here. I want to thank my fellow Senators
for being here. I thank our witnesses and the audience.
Yes, I think all of us can picture somebody in our lives
that, you know, has gone through loneliness, whether it is a
family member or somebody you have seen along the trail or
something, and it is tough.
It is important that we figure out how to recommit to
figure out how to get this done. There is some things that the
private sector can do, or families can do, our friends can do,
and there is some things Government can do. We have got to
figure out how to do all those things in a manner that has an
impact.
Thanks everybody for being here. I look forward to
continuing to work with members across the aisle and down the
dais on this very important topic. If any Senators have
additional questions for the witnesses or statements to be
added, the hearing record will be open until next Wednesday at
5.00 p.m..
I want to thank everybody for being here.
[Whereupon, at 11:57 a.m., the hearing was adjourned.]
=======================================================================
APPENDIX
=======================================================================
Prepared Witness Statements
=======================================================================
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Prepared Witness Statements
Andrew MacPherson
Chairman Scott, Ranking Member Gillibrand, and
distinguished members of the Aging Committee, thank you for the
opportunity to testify today on the pressing issue of social
isolation and loneliness among older adults. My name is Andrew
MacPherson, and I am the Founder and Chairman of the Foundation
for Social Connection Action Network (F4SC-AN). Since our
establishment in 2018, our mission has been to create a diverse
coalition of national organizations, including consumer groups,
health plans, health care providers, technology innovators, and
patient advocates, with the goal of developing and advocating
for federal policy solutions that address the epidemic of
social isolation and loneliness. Our efforts encompass a wide
range of activities, from legislative and programmatic advocacy
to public awareness campaigns that integrate research and
evidence.
The Action Network is honored to have played a role in
supporting and advising a range of federal policy efforts to
address the public health crisis of social isolation and
loneliness, including working directly with members of Congress
on a bipartisan basis, former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek
Murthy, the White House Domestic Policy Council, and leading
agencies such as the Administration for Community Living as
well as leading advocates in the field such as the
Gerontological Society of America and AARP. Over the past seven
years, we have worked diligently alongside these and other
influential voices to address loneliness and social isolation,
striving to make meaningful progress in addressing one of the
most pressing public health challenges of our time.
As this Committee knows, this issue is critical. Before
sharing key statistics and the reasons behind our work, I want
to acknowledge and thank you for the tremendous efforts and
progress in the Senate and House to support older Americans.
We strongly support Chairman Scott and Senator Tina Smith
in their introduction of the Social Engagement and Network
Initiatives for Older Relief (SENIOR) Act, which aims to reduce
loneliness by expanding access to community-based initiatives
that foster social connection. A key element of this
legislation is the inclusion of the word "loneliness" in the
definition of "disease prevention and health promotion
services" under the Older Americans Act. This inclusion
underscores the critical role social connection plays in
helping older adults live healthy, independent lives.
Additionally, this change would increase funding for vital
gathering places, like senior centers and libraries, where
older adults can participate in structured social activities
that build connections. It also supports transportation
solutions through subsidized ridesharing and shuttle services
that help older adults stay active in their communities. It
expands volunteer and peer-support networks, providing older
adults with meaningful opportunities for mutual aid,
mentorship, and community engagement. Importantly, the
legislation mandates a federal report on the impact of
loneliness, examining how multigenerational family structures
influence social connectedness in older adults. We thank the
Chairman and Senator Smith for their leadership on this
important legislation.
In the House, Congressmen Flood and Bera introduced the
Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act. Even
with increasing recognition of loneliness as a public health
crisis, the U.S. health care system currently has no
standardized method for measuring social disconnection,
loneliness, or social isolation. This bill addresses the gap by
establishing a federal Working Group composed of experts,
researchers, and agency representatives to develop uniform
metrics for assessing loneliness and isolation. These
standardized tools could be integrated into Medicare wellness
visits, electronic health records, and public health surveys,
to ensure early identification of at-risk seniors.
Additionally, this legislation would provide critical data to
inform policy decisions, including potential insurance coverage
for community-based interventions like home-visit programs,
which have been shown to reduce loneliness and improve overall
well-being.
In addition to these two pieces of bipartisan legislation,
we are pleased to note that a number of other bills that have
been introduced on this issue in the past several years. We
commend these members for their bipartisan leadership and their
commitment to this critical issue.
Although significant progress has been made, the work is
far from complete. We must continue to build on these efforts,
ensuring that we address the full scope of loneliness and
social isolation with the urgency and dedication it requires.
This demographic, already dealing with challenges related to
aging, health, and accessibility, is disproportionately
impacted by isolation, with consequences extending beyond
emotional well-being to physical health, cognitive decline, and
even mortality. The impact of loneliness on older adults is not
merely a matter of individual suffering but a societal concern
with costs that merit our collective attention.
The Crisis of Loneliness Among Older Adults
Social isolation and loneliness among older adults have
reached epidemic proportions, with devastating effects on
public health, health care costs, and overall well-being.
According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering,
and Medicine (NASEM), nearly one in four adults aged 65 and
older is considered socially isolated.\1\ The consequences are
severe: chronic loneliness is linked to a 50% increased risk of
dementia, a 29% increased risk of heart disease, and a 32%
increased risk of
stroke.\2\,\3\,\4\
Research has also found that prolonged loneliness is as harmful
to health as smoking 15 cigarettes per day,\5\ making it a
significant public health crisis that demands urgent action.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
(2020) Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities
for the Health Care System, The National Academies Press, Washington,
DC. 10.17226/25663.
\2\ National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
(2020) Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities
for the Health Care System, The National Academies Press, Washington,
DC. 10.17226/25663.
\3\ Valtorta NK, Kanaan M, Gilbody S, Ronzi S, Hanratty B.
Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for coronary heart
disease and stroke: systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal
observational studies. Heart. 2016;102(13):1009-1016.
\4\ Kuiper JS, Zuidersma M, Oude Voshaar RC. Social relationships
and risk of dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of
longitudinal cohort studies. Ageing Res Rev. 2015;22:39-57. doi:
10.1016/j.arr.2015.04.006.
\5\ Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation (2023). Office of the
U.S. Surgeon General. Department of Health and Human Services. https://
www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-
advisory.pdf.
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Beyond its impact on health, social isolation among older
adults carries a substantial economic burden. Estimates show
that Medicare spends an additional $6.7 billion annually on
socially isolated older adults due to increased
hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and nursing home
admissions.\6\ Loneliness is also associated with higher rates
of depression and anxiety,\7\ leading to increased prescription
medication use and mental health service costs. Furthermore,
socially disconnected older adults are more likely to
experience functional decline,\8\ increasing reliance on costly
long-term care services.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\6\ Flowers, L., Houser, A., Noel-Miller, C., Shaw, J.,
Bhattacharya, J., Schoemaker, L. & Farid, M. (2017). Medicare Spends
More on Socially Isolated Older Adults. AARP. https://www.aarp.org/pri/
topics/health/coverage-access/medicare-spends-more-on-socially-
isolated-older-adults/.
\7\ Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation (2023). Office of the
U.S. Surgeon General. Department of Health and Human Services. https://
www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-
advisory.pdf.
\8\ National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
(2020) Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities
for the Health Care System, The National Academies Press, Washington,
DC. 10.17226/25663.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The economic impact extends beyond health care
expenditures. Social isolation reduces workforce participation
among older adults who might otherwise engage in part-time
employment, mentorship, or volunteer activities, all of which
contribute to economic productivity.\9\ It also places a
financial strain on family caregivers, many of whom must reduce
their working hours or leave the workforce entirely to provide
care for an isolated loved one.\10\ Addressing this crisis is
not just a moral imperative, it is an economic necessity.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\9\ National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
(2020). Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities
for the Health Care System. https://www.nap.edu/catalog/25663/social-
isolation-and-loneliness-in-older-adults-opportunities-for-the-health-
care-system
\10\ Committee on Family Caregiving for Older Adults; Board on
Health Care Services; Health and Medicine Division; National Academies
of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Schulz R, Eden J, editors.
Families Caring for an Aging America. Washington (DC): National
Academies Press (US); 2016 Nov 8. 4, Economic Impact of Family
Caregiving. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK396402/.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Several structural and societal factors contribute to this
crisis of social isolation and loneliness among older adults.
The decline of multi-generational living - a trend driven by
economic pressures and shifting cultural norms - has reduced
the built-in support systems that once naturally fostered
intergenerational connections. According to the Pew Research
Center, while 57% of older adults worldwide lived in extended
family houses in 1960, that figure has steadily declined,
particularly in high-income nations like the United States,
where only 20% of older adults now reside in such
arrangements.\11\
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\11\ Pew Research Center (2010). The Return of the Multi-
Generational Family Household. https://www.pewresearch.org/social-
trends/2010/03/18/the-return-of-the-multi-generational-family-
household/.
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Simultaneously, shrinking social circles and declining
participation in community and civic life have further
exacerbated the problem. Robert Putnam's seminal work Bowling
Alone (2000) details how social capital has diminished over
recent decades, with fewer individuals engaging in clubs,
religious institutions, and volunteerism-key avenues through
which older adults have historically built and maintained
relationships.\12\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\12\ Putnam, R. (2000). Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of
American Community. Simon & Schuster.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Barriers to mobility-both physical and financial-compound
these issues. Many older adults face challenges such as
inaccessible public transportation, unaffordable housing, and
declining physical health, which can prevent them from engaging
in the social activities they once enjoyed. Mobility
limitations have been reported to affect about 35% of adults
aged 70 and older, and the majority of adults over 85 years,
making it difficult to visit friends, attend social gatherings,
or participate in community life.\13\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\13\ Freiberger E, Sieber CC, Kob R. Mobility in Older Community-
Dwelling Persons: A Narrative Review. Front Physiol. 2020 Sep
15;11:881. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00881. PMID: 33041836; PMCID:
PMC7522521.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
At the same time, the increasing reliance on digital
communication as a primary means of connection has created new
barriers. While technology has expanded opportunities for
social engagement, many older adults struggle with digital
literacy and lack access to high-speed internet, particularly
in rural and underserved communities.
Finally, ageism in society discourages many older adults
from seeking social engagement, exacerbating their isolation.
Negative stereotypes about aging can lead to self-imposed
withdrawal, as older adults may feel undervalued or unwelcome
in spaces dominated by younger generations. Research from the
World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that ageism is linked
to poorer physical and mental health outcomes, increased social
isolation, and even reduced life expectancy.\14\
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\14\ World Health Organization (2021). Ageism is a global
challenge: UN. https://www.who.int/news/item/18-03-2021-ageism-is-a-
global-challenge-un
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Evidence-Based Policy Solutions to Address Loneliness
In light of these statistics, I would like to highlight
five key areas where public policy can play a transformative
role in addressing and mitigating this crisis. These areas
present tangible opportunities for a response rooted in
collaboration and innovation to ensure our most vulnerable
populations receive support and connection. I want to express
my gratitude once again for the committee's focus on this
critical matter, and I look forward to exploring these
solutions together.
Strengthen Federal Programs to Address Loneliness Among Older
Adults
The Older Americans Act (OAA) serves as a vital cornerstone
for aging services, but current demand far exceeds available
resources. While an increase in funding is needed, it can
result in cost savings in other areas. By enhancing funding for
OAA nutrition programs, we can ensure that congregate meal
sites not only provide nourishment to maintain physical health
but also serve as vital social hubs that promote engagement and
connection among older adults. In alignment with the
committee's jurisdiction, addressing issues of health
maintenance, securing adequate income, and engaging in
productive activities, further investments in senior centers,
libraries, and multi-use community spaces will offer structured
opportunities for socialization, supporting overall well-being.
Additionally, targeted funding for rural aging
interventions is essential to address isolation in areas with
limited transportation and resources. The Administration for
Community Living (ACL) has taken an important leadership role
in developing evidence-based models to integrate social
engagement into health policy. Expanding funding for ACL's
Commit to Connect initiative would enable a more comprehensive
evaluation of interventions that address loneliness, including
technological solutions, intergenerational programming, and
cognitive health initiatives. We also recommend that
policymakers prioritize funding for peer support programs,
volunteer-based companionship models, and faith-based
mentorship initiatives, which are instrumental in strengthening
community-driven approaches to social connection. This broader
approach will not only enhance quality of life but also ensure
that older adults receive the full spectrum of support they
need to thrive in all areas of life.
Expand Intergenerational Programs
Intergenerational initiatives-such as shared housing
programs, mentorship opportunities, and community volunteer
projects-have proven to significantly reduce loneliness among
both older and younger generations. A recent study by
Generations United found that 92% of Americans believe that
participation in intergenerational programs improves feelings
of loneliness across age groups.\15\ Fortunately, many
evidence-based strategies can be implemented to strengthen
these bonds, including designing built environments that
encourage social interaction,\16\ establishing and scaling
community connection programs that unite diverse age groups,
and strategically investing in local institutions that serve as
intergenerational community hubs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\15\ Generations United and The Eisner Foundation (2018). All in
together: Creating places where young and old thrive. https://
www.gu.org/app/uploads/2018/06/SignatureReport-Eisner-All-In-
Together.pdf.
\16\ Jennings, Viniece & Browning, Matthew & Rigolon, Alessandro.
(2019). Planning Urban Green Spaces in Their Communities:
Intersectional Approaches for Health Equity and Sustainability.
10.1007/978-3-030-10469-6--5.
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Increasing funding for these programs is essential to
deepen community cohesion and enhance mental well-being,
aligning with the Committee's focus on promoting health, income
security, and access to productive activity for older adults.
Furthermore, the development of intergenerational and age-
friendly communities creates opportunities for social
engagement, reduces feelings of loneliness, and fosters empathy
across generations. Such initiatives not only strengthen
individual well-being but also contribute to a more inclusive
and supportive society.
Promote Digital Inclusion and Technology Access
While technology holds significant potential to mitigate
social isolation, its adoption among older adults remains
limited. Pew Research Center data indicates that 55% of
Americans aged 65 and older do not use social media,\17\ and
nearly 22 million older adults lack broadband access.\18\ To
address these challenges, prioritizing digital literacy
training and ensuring affordable broadband access, particularly
in rural and underserved communities, is crucial. Despite the
overall increase in technology adoption, digital disparities
persist, especially among individuals with disabilities, lower-
income adults, and rural residents. A Gallup study highlights
that older adults who use technology for support are more
likely to seek in-person assistance, underscoring the
complementary relationship between digital and physical
connection.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\17\ Faverio, M. (2022). Share of those 65 and older who are tech
users has grown in the past decade. Pew Research Center. https://
www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/01/13/share-of-those-65-and-older-
who-are-tech-users-has-grown-in-the-past-decade/.
\18\ Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) (2021). Report: 22
Million U.S. Seniors Lack Broadband Internet Access; First Time Study
Quantifies Digital Isolation of Older Americans as Pandemic Continues
to Ravage Nation [Press Release]. AARP. https://oats.org/aging-
connected-press-release/.
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To bridge this gap, leveraging telehealth, assistive
devices, online support groups, and expanded broadband access
can significantly enhance social connectivity among older
Americans. These interventions not only increase access to
social support beyond in-person interactions but also improve
patient-doctor relationships and foster community cohesion.
In addition, updating the 2010 National Broadband Plan to
focus on low-income, rural, underrepresented, and socially
isolated populations will ensure a more inclusive digital
landscape. Federal digital literacy programs should also be
expanded to include cybersecurity education, specifically
targeting older adults to ensure they can navigate online
spaces safely. By addressing digital literacy, expanding
broadband access, and continuing to innovate in the development
and implementation of technology, we can effectively combat
social isolation and foster meaningful connections across
generations.
Enhance Medicare's Role in Addressing Loneliness
Medicare plays a crucial role in supporting the health and
well-being of older adults, and it is poised to do more to
address the growing crisis of loneliness and social isolation.
One effective strategy would be to require Medicare Annual
Wellness Visits to include routine screenings for social
isolation and loneliness, enabling providers to identify at-
risk individuals and connect them with appropriate
interventions. It is also important to ensure that Medicare
Advantage plans maintain access to sufficient rebate dollars to
offer and tailor supplemental benefits that directly address
these issues, such as social engagement programs and
transportation assistance. Expanding Medicare's coverage to
include interventions for loneliness, such as counseling and
peer support services, would provide this at-risk population
with a critical avenue for emotional and social care.
Furthermore, expanding coverage for hearing aids-through
improved private insurance and Medicare benefits-would remove a
significant barrier to communication and socialization for
older adults, helping to reduce the isolation often caused by
hearing loss. These steps would strengthen Medicare as a more
comprehensive solution for addressing loneliness, ensuring that
older adults receive not just physical care but also the social
and emotional support they need to thrive.
Improve Transportation Access
Reliable transportation acts as a crucial bridge to social
connection, directly combating feelings of loneliness. Access
to transportation enables individuals, especially those with
mobility limitations or living in rural or isolated areas, to
engage in social life by connecting them to parks, green
spaces, community activities, cultural institutions, social
events, and visits with loved ones. For individuals with lower
socioeconomic status, access to affordable transportation can
alleviate the psychological burden of prioritizing basic needs
over social activities. Overall, access to transportation is
vital for reducing social isolation and loneliness in these
vulnerable populations who may otherwise find themselves cut
off from essential support networks.
Studies consistently demonstrate that increased use of
public transportation, especially among seniors, correlates
with a reduction in feelings of loneliness and
depression.\19\,\20\ Increasing access to
affordable, reliable public transportation can improve
opportunities for social connection and recreation, build
social capital, and increase social ties. Therefore, we urge
transportation planners and decision-makers to adopt a "people
first" mentality by prioritizing movability through walking and
bicycling networks, accessible and affordable transit services,
lower traffic speeds, and better air quality control.
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\19\ Henning-Smith, C., Evenson, A., Kozhimannil, K. B., &
Moscovice, I. (2018). Geographic variation in transportation concerns
and adaptations to travel-limiting health conditions in the United
States. Journal of Transport & Health (Print), 8, 137-145. doi.org/
10.1016/j.jth.2017.11.146.
\20\ Mattson, J. W., & Peterson, D. (2021). Measuring benefits of
rural and small urban transit in Greater Minnesota. Transportation
Research Record, 036119812199001. https://doi.org/10.1177/
0361198121990014
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Additionally, policymakers should develop a Senior Mobility
Program under the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to
incentivize cities to improve public transportation options,
such as subsidized ride-sharing services and accessible bus
routes for older adults. Addressing transportation insecurity
by improving access to non-emergency medical transportation and
non-medical transportation programs also provides social
interaction opportunities, connects individuals to healthcare
services, and improves quality of life. Ultimately,
transportation transcends its function as a means of travel and
is a fundamental tool for fostering social inclusion and
bolstering overall well-being.
A Bold Agenda for the Future: F4SC-AN's Policy Priorities
Today, I am honored to announce the launch of the
Foundation for Social Connection Action Network's Policy
Priorities for Social Connection, which includes these and
other focus areas. It is a groundbreaking framework comprised
of over 130 strategic policy solutions designed to foster
genuine social connection. Based on a thorough review of
existing research, including leading scientist Dr. Julianne
Holt-Lunstad's SOCIAL Framework (Systems Approach of Cross-
Sector Integration and Action Across the Lifespan),\21\ our
framework prioritizes seven key areas for action: Health;
Education; Work, Employment & Labor; Built Environment; Arts,
Culture, and Leisure; Food & Nutrition; and Research and
Measurement, most of which I've discussed with you today.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\21\ Holt-Lunstad J. Social Connection as a Public Health Issue:
The Evidence and a Systemic Framework for Prioritizing the "Social" in
Social Determinants of Health. Annu Rev Public Health. 2022 Apr
5;43:193-213. doi: 10.1146/annurev-publhealth-052020-110732. Epub 2022
Jan 12. PMID: 35021021.
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This ambitious agenda calls for a united effort across all
levels of government while also recognizing the crucial role
communities play in strengthening social bonds. At its core,
our policy agenda aims to create sustainable, inclusive
solutions that promote meaningful connections for individuals
at every stage of life. Grounded in rigorous scientific
evidence highlighting the devastating effects of social
isolation and loneliness, this agenda aligns promising policies
with the transformative potential to enhance public health,
drive economic prosperity, uplift community well-being, and
elevate the overall quality of life for all Americans.
Together, we can build a future where connection, not
isolation, defines the American experience.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Chairman Scott, Ranking Member Gillibrand, and esteemed
members of the Committee, as this hearing instructs us,
addressing the epidemic of loneliness among older adults is not
only a moral imperative but also a critical public health
necessity. The time for decisive action is now. We urge
Congress to increase funding for proven programs, advocate for
innovative legislative solutions, and prioritize social
connection as a national objective.
Tackling this issue offers us an opportunity to unite in a
time of increasing polarization. By fostering social
connection, we can bridge divides, rebuild trust, and
strengthen the fabric of our communities. This issue transcends
political affiliation and speaks to our shared humanity.
Together, we can build a future where connection, not
isolation, defines the American experience. Thank you for the
opportunity to testify today.
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Prepared Witness Statements
James Balda
Chairman Scott, Ranking Member Gillibrand, and members of
the committee, thank you for this opportunity. I am James
Balda, President and CEO of Argentum, the leading national
association serving senior living communities, including
independent living, assisted living and memory care communities
across the nation. More than 2 million seniors call our
communities home. Argentum commends you, Senator Smith (D-MN)
and Senator Warnock (D-GA) on the introduction of the SENIOR
Act and for holding this important hearing.
Socialization is a crucial aspect of healthy aging.
Socialization promotes a sense of purpose and connection with
others. It significantly improves the mental health, cognitive
function, and physical health of seniors.
We see this firsthand every day in our communities. Our
assisted living model of care was created to allow seniors to
thrive - to provide seniors with a sense of dignity,
independence and community - to keep seniors living as
independently as possible, to prolong the quality of life, and
delay for as long as possible the need for costlier care. The
structure of our communities' social activities specifically
fosters a sense of community and belonging while simultaneously
providing 24-hour care -- assisting our residents with a
multitude of ADLs, or activities of daily living, such as
bathing, dressing, toileting, eating and mobility. Our care
also includes medication management, providing nutritious meals
and crucial socialization.
I believe we do our job well. According to multiple
national surveys, our residents are thriving. Ninety-four
percent of senior residents said they were happy with their
choice of community and had made friends; 99% said they felt
safe; 75% responded that their quality of life improved; and
according to a poll of more than 130,000 assisted living
residents, loneliness levels were reduced dramatically when
residents, who formerly lived alone, moved into our
communities.
Lillian, an 85-year-old assisted living resident in
California, lived alone and suffered mobility issues and
depression. Shortly after she moved into an assisted living
community, Lillian filled her day with art classes, exercise
classes, and prayer groups and stated she now has a "wonderful
group of friends, many who are lifelong."
An assisted living community provides a wide range of
social and interactive activities tailored to different
abilities and interests. Seniors can enjoy gardening, dancing,
educational seminars, exercise classes, concerts, book clubs,
religious services, arts and crafts, and game nights, to name
just a few. Regardless of the activity, each is designed to
create a sense of purpose and community, and to combat
isolation, depression and loneliness. Equally importantly,
because assisted living communities are the homes of seniors,
pets are welcome at most communities, and pet therapy is often
available for those who are not capable of caring for a pet.
The Health Impact of Social Isolation
Loneliness and social isolation in older adults are serious
public health risks, affecting millions of seniors. According
to a study in JAMA Internal Medicine, up to 50% of those 60 and
older are at risk of social isolation, and nearly one-fourth of
adults aged 65 and older are socially isolated. Factors such as
living alone, the loss of family or friends, chronic illness,
and hearing loss are all contributing factors to social
isolation and loneliness.
The consequences of social isolation cannot be overstated.
The former U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, called
loneliness "America's invisible epidemic," noting that "The
physical health consequences of poor or insufficient connection
include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased
risk of stroke, a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for
older adults, and a 60% increased risk of premature death." An
AARP report estimates that the adverse health effects of
loneliness equal that of smoking 15 cigarettes per day.
The Alzheimer's Association reports that social isolation
increases dementia risk by more than 50%. What's more, it found
that a strong connection exists between high social contact
later in life and memory and thinking skills.
The Cost of Social Isolation
The costs of loneliness are significant. According to a
Harvard-Stanford-AARP study measuring the impact of social
isolation on the healthcare system, Medicare spent an estimated
$1,608 annually for each socially-isolated older adult than it
did for those who had more social contacts, concluding that "a
lack of social contacts among older adults is associated with
an estimated $6.7 billion in additional federal spending each
year." Additionally, a recent study in JAMA Internal Medicine
determined that social isolation among seniors can increase the
chances of admission to nursing homes and recommended that
programs to increase their socialization could reduce
healthcare spending.
As this committee well knows, the prevalence and cost of
dementias is escalating, with some projections stating the
number of people living with dementia is projected to roughly
double every twenty years. The health care costs of Alzheimer's
and other dementias to Medicare and Medicaid are approximately
$231 billion annually, and is projected increase of over 200%
by 2050.
The Benefits of Communal Living
Assisted living communities strengthen social connections
for our residents and therefore play an important role in
reducing social isolation and supporting the overall health and
well-being of seniors. A national study by the University of
Michigan found that adults aged 50 to 80 who live alone report
higher rates of social isolation than those who live with
others. The social and communal atmosphere of assisted living
changes that dynamic. As stated above, a national survey of
more than 130,000 assisted living residents by Activated
Insights, found that just 14.3% of senior living residents
reported being lonely, compared to 29.9% of seniors who live
alone. Many of our communities have reported even lower
loneliness scores.
The communal yet home-like nature of assisted living
fosters independence and socialization to help seniors thrive
while preventing mental and physical decline. "A community is a
group of people who care about one another, and that's what we
are here," said Eilean of her community in upstate New York.
Resident satisfaction in assisted living remains extremely high
because communities are able to not only offer high quality of
personal care but also improve the quality of life of
residents. National surveys have found that 90% of assisted
living residents report high satisfaction with their care and
communities.
When 95-year-old James' wife died and it wasn't safe for
him to remain at home alone, he reluctantly moved into an
assisted living community. His granddaughter said that the move
"literally saved his life" and that her grandfather "blossomed
due to his many new friendships." His caregivers managed his
chronic conditions, medications and psychosocial needs. She
stated, "I am a firm believer that without assisted living we
would have lost my grandpa quickly after the death of my
grandmother. To see a light in his eyes again and to hear that
he feels he has purpose has been the greatest gift."
A 2024 U.S. News & World Report survey of older Americans
and their families found that nearly all the respondents (99%)
said they felt safe at their senior living community, further,
nearly all respondents (98%) said they trusted the staff at
their senior living community to care for their well-being.
Social connections made in assisted living communities are
important -- 93% of residents reported that they are pleased
with the social opportunities within their communities, and 75%
say assisted living has demonstrably improved their quality of
life. According to the 2024 J.D. Power Senior Living
Satisfaction Survey, assisted living communities received a
satisfaction score of 855 (on a 1,000-point scale), up 18
points from the prior year, and higher than industries like
travel and hospitality.
"A laugh a day keeps the doctor away, and that's what we do
here," said Bob, an 84-year-old resident, in a Florida
community. Perhaps Bob is on to something. In a review of
Medicare claims of residents from more than 14,000 senior
living communities, and using the Harvard Claims-Based Frailty
Index to assess vulnerability, researchers found that residents
experienced a 10% decline in frailty levels one year after
moving in. Through care coordination and managing chronic
conditions, assisted living communities improve the health and
wellbeing of their residents while decreasing the financial
strain on the healthcare system. A 2018 Washington University
study found that living in a senior community can lead to lower
levels of hospitalization for vulnerable seniors-including
those with chronic health conditions. Utilizing data from a
decade-long study, the report concludes that the services
offered by many senior living communities encourage residents
to seek treatment sooner for pressing issues, leading to fewer
trips to the hospital. The "findings suggest that the positive
effects from the various support services available in the
senior housing environment accrue over time in helping
vulnerable elders better manage their health conditions."
Two Testimonials:
"About three years ago my neighbor started to decline in
his physical abilities. He was a veteran and would go to the VA
regularly for help with different issues he was experiencing.
He loved walking and tried as hard as he could to keep moving
so he would not lose his ability to walk. Despite his efforts
he continued to decline. In the winter, my friend could not
walk safely outside. He had a hard time with some stairs in his
house and the sloped driveway and in the winter, he lost much
leg strength. He cooked for himself and did not always want to
take the time to eat properly. He became very skinny and frail.
He was a very social person, but he continued to become more
isolated. Family and neighbors tried to keep him company as
best as they could, but no one could provide him with the
social aspects of his life as he needed.
I used to pick him up every Sunday for church services, but
it became harder and harder for him to get himself ready.
Sometimes it would take him three hours to get ready. It became
hard for him to shower and to dress. Eventually he finally gave
up on trying to come to church with us, which was a big part of
his life -- not just spiritually but also socially. As time
went on, the decision was made to move him into an assisted
living community. Immediately he loved it! It met his needs in
so many ways. He could walk the building without fear of what
he used to worry about. He could use the fitness room every
day, which he loved to do. He ate three meals daily in the
dining room and started to put back the weight he had lost.
Socially he integrated very quickly, and he told me recently
that he considers the people living there to be a part of his
family. He truly loves it, and it made such a difference in his
quality of life.
I had spoken to his daughter about her dad many times on
the phone. She lived in a different city and didn't get to see
him too often. One day after he moved into the community, his
daughter gave me a big hug and thanked me for all the talks and
discussions that helped to lead her dad to moving into an
assisted living community. She said the people that work there
are her heroes. She then said that her dad was happier than he
had ever been in his entire life. She said her entire family
was grateful for the community that gave her dad renewed hope
and happiness and a better life than he had in a very long
time."
-Holladay, Utah, January 2024
Meet Zelma Bennett, one of our newest residents at
Commonwealth Senior Living at Stratford House. Zelma moved into
our community on January 29th, after spending the past year
living with a friend. Zelma, who had previously run a group
home for adults, enjoyed maintaining a vibrant social life with
assistance, but her memory loss prompted her to seek a
community where she could continue engaging socially while
receiving the support she needed. From the moment she arrived,
Zelma embraced every opportunity for socialization,
participating in nearly every activity offered. She uses her
calendar so frequently to keep track of events that she wears
it out and needs to replace it before the month's end! Her
enthusiasm has been contagious, and she has made many new
friends in a short time. Zelma's story is just one example of
how socialization in our communities has dramatically improved
the quality of life for seniors. The friendships and activities
she's engaged in have helped alleviate her feelings of
loneliness and have given her a renewed sense of purpose and
joy. We are so grateful she chose to join our community.
-Resident Program Director, Danville, Virginia, March 2025
As we look back five years from the start of the pandemic,
it is important to note how our residents faired during those
times of intense isolation. A 2022 joint report from the ATI
Advisory and the American Senior Housing Association found that
senior living communities improved quality of life during the
pandemic through cohesive social environments and encouragement
of residents to participate in social activities. Residents,
the study found, were more likely to have greater social,
physical and intellectual wellness than their counterparts
living in the greater community.
The Benefits of Pet Therapy
The powerful bond between humans and animals has been
proven to benefit physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
For this reason, most assisted living communities allow pets.
Pets can provide unconditional love and support, encourage
socialization, reduce stress levels, and foster a sense of
belonging - all of which can curb loneliness and bring about
physical and mental healing.
Pets have an incredible capacity to bring joy and
companionship into our lives. Joanie and her rescued black cat,
"Baby Boy," often serve as the "greeters" to visitors of their
assisted living community. And Jean, a resident of a community
in Florida, has Gretta Garbo, a 9-year-old Miniature Poodle, as
her steadfast companion. Gretta Garbo is every bit the starlet
of the community as her namesake suggests -- the poodle dresses
for all types of occasions and provides the normally
introverted Jean with the motivation to socialize and
participate in communal activities.
For those who are unable to have their own pet, many
communities utilize pet therapy which can play a crucial role
in curbing negative behaviors associated with dementia and
other cognitive impairments. By providing companionship and
emotional support, pet therapy can help seniors feel more
connected and less isolated, leading to a reduction in negative
behaviors. Furthermore, the soothing presence of therapy
animals can help calm seniors with cognitive impairments,
promoting a more stable emotional state and overall well-being.
Buttercup and Sugarplum, two Golden Retrievers, are regular
visitors to a memory care community in Maryland. When they
arrive during circle time, there isn't a resident who doesn't
want to see an affectionate tail wag and maybe receive a
friendly lick on their hands. A room, once quiet, can transform
into laughter and perhaps even unlock precious memories of
long-forgotten childhood pets or spark the recollection of the
name of their children's first puppy.
Directed Socialization Critical in Caring for Seniors with
Dementia
Research links dementia-associated apathy to accelerated
decline in all physical and mental areas. When cognitive
changes start, withdrawal and isolation are common. Memory care
communities often have programs to encourage residents to
consistently socialize and participate in therapeutic
activities to reduce apathy and build cognitive reserve.
A national senior living provider headquartered in Texas
recently evaluated its memory care socialization program known
as the Circle of Friends program and compared two cognitively
similar groups of their assisted living residents. One group
was enrolled in Circle of Friends. The second group was not,
but chose from a similar menu of activities to attend on their
own. The participation standard for both groups was four hours
a day. What was learned was that approximately 75% of the
residents in the Circle of Friends group spent a minimum of
four hours per day engaged in purposeful activities, with less
than one-fourth exhibiting apathy. However, less than a third
of the group of self-directed participants met the study's
minimum participation standard and nearly two-thirds exhibited
apathy. For residents who are beginning to experience cognitive
decline, the benefits of a guided program can be significant in
helping to maintain engagement and function.
Whisper Words of Wisdom - Music Therapy and Cognitive Decline
Directed socialization with music therapy is also effective
when dementia residents become socially withdrawn and can
encourage engagement and improve verbal abilities. Mary, a 73-
year-old memory care resident suffering from vascular dementia,
can become non-verbal and withdrawn as her disease progresses.
To help abate this, a record player in her apartment becomes an
important tool. For Mary, a lifelong Beatles fan (she has a
framed $5 ticket stub from a 1965 Beatles concert she attended
in Portland, Oregon in 1965), directed music therapy is
effective. Let it Be is often the song of choice. Mary remains
silent at the beginning of the song but soon is swaying to the
music and when the phrase "whisper words of wisdom" is sung,
Mary is inevitably singing along. It's common for fellow
residents to join in for an impromptu sing-a long.
The Aging Crisis and Long-Term Care Solutions
By 2030, all baby boomers will be at least age 65, and in
that same year for the first time in our nation's history,
there will be more individuals over the age of 65 than under
the age of 18. The most rapidly growing segment of the
population are those 85 and older. As this Committee continues
to provide guidance to Congress on how to prepare for the
nation's aging crisis, is it important to note that assisted
living is the most cost-effective form of long-term care.
To stretch limited federal long-term care dollars, "right-
sizing" long-term care needs is critical. A 2021 report by the
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs found that if veterans did
not need the high level of care of skilled nursing, the federal
government could save an average of $69,000 per year per
veteran by providing care in assisted living communities.
Ensuring that veterans and seniors are in their appropriate
level of care can provide significant financial savings, both
to the individual and to taxpayer-funded public programs.
Additionally, the need for investment in our nation's long-
term care is long overdue, with a rapidly aging population and
need for long-term care projected to explode in the coming
years. Every day, more than 10,000 Americans turn 65, and the
85 and older population (average age of an assisted living
resident) is projected to more than double from 6.6 million in
2019 to 14.4 million in 2040 (a 118% increase). By 2030, all
baby boomers will have reached 65 years old and for the first
time in history, older adults will outnumber children in the
United States. Federal data shows that someone turning age 65
today has a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care
in their lifetime, 50% will need more extensive care in a
skilled nursing facility or assisted living community, and 20%
will need it for five years or more.
Despite this projected explosion in demand, there is not
nearly enough supply of senior housing to meet these care
needs. The National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and
Care (NIC) estimates that approximately 881,000 additional
units of assisted living inventory will be needed to serve
seniors by 2030. Estimates suggest that the development cost
associated with needed production of assisted living will
exceed $1 trillion by 2050. Insufficient investment will
dramatically limit housing access and options for seniors.
The Importance of the SENIOR Act and the Care Across
Generations Act
Mr. Chairman, we believe our communities offer many
opportunities for seniors to combat loneliness, but we know
more can be done and believe seniors should be able to choose
where and how they live. That is why Argentum commends you on
taking the important step of introducing the SENIOR Act. The
important bill will take critical steps to address the epidemic
of senior loneliness by promoting key programs specifically
designed to reduce loneliness for all seniors in the broader
community. Additionally, the requirement to direct the
Secretary of HHS to report to Congress on the importance of
multigeneration relationships to mental health and loneliness
is significant.
According to studies by the National Institute of Health,
both older and younger people experience a significant
reduction in loneliness through interactions with individuals
from different generations. Therefore, Argentum is also pleased
to support H.R. 1812, the Care Across Generations Act, a
bipartisan bill which will create opportunities for
intergenerational connection through the establishment of a
grant program for assisted living and all long-term care
settings to co-locate a childcare facility near or within a
long-term care community. We believe the benefits to both the
seniors and the children will be enormous.
Mr. Chairman, thank you again for holding this important
hearing. Argentum looks forward to working with you and the
Committee on this and other critical issues impacting our
nation's seniors.
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Prepared Witness Statements
Suzanne McCormick
Chairman Scott and Ranking Member Gillibrand: I want to
thank you for inviting me today.
I am here representing the nation's 2,600 YMCAs, which
serve 10,000 communities across our country. I am grateful for
the opportunity to share the story of how they connect and
support our older adults every day.
At the Y, we are committed to strengthening communities by
connecting people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to
their potential, their purpose and each other.
This has been at the core of who we are for 175 years in
the U.S. But today, we know that people are struggling to make
these connections.
Forty percent of adults say they feel lonely sometimes or
even more often than that.
The mortality rate of being socially disconnected is
similar to the impact of smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and
greater than the impact associated with obesity and inactivity.
The health risks for our older adults are heightened,
because they are more likely to feel isolated and disconnected
than younger Americans.
But at the Y, older adults find the support and meaningful
relationships they need to feel connected and be healthy.
YMCAs engage 17 million Americans annually, and nearly 4
million are over age 55. Almost 2.5 million are over 65.
Seniors make up nearly one-quarter of our members.
A few years ago, the Y partnered with NORC at the
University of Chicago to find out whether older adults report
better quality of life and social connectedness when they visit
our facilities or participate in our programs.
Results of this study showed significant increases in
overall well-being and social connectedness, a decrease in
loneliness, and observed improvements in social well-being,
spiritual well-being, physical health and mental health.
The results were even better for older adults who were able
to engage more frequently with their YMCA.
Our programs not only help participants build friendships
and connections that we all need to thrive, but they also can
help prevent, delay or control chronic disease.
Thanks to a 20-year partnership with CDC, the Y is the
leading in-person provider of evidence-based chronic disease
prevention and management programs, which address issues like
diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, falls and cancer.
These programs have been proven to improve health outcomes
and quality of life, and they often save health care dollars.
In fact, the Y is recognized for its work with the Centers
for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation. During a national study
of 8,000 Medicare recipients, the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention
Program saved $2,650 per participant while preventing or
delaying diabetes among the majority of recipients.
The Y is also the leading provider of the Medicare
Advantage fitness benefit -- larger than the next seven
providers combined.
But for as much as we are able to accomplish on our own due
to our national scale and community-level credibility, the Y is
always looking to maximize our impact through partnerships.
So, in communities across the country, YMCAs collaborate
with partners like senior centers, libraries and places of
worship to reach and engage more older adults.
The Y looks forward to also partnering with the Select
Committee on Aging to improve both the physical and emotional
health of our nation's older adults.
We urge Congress to continue supporting the highest level
of funding for the CDC to help the Y innovate our evidence-
based chronic disease prevention and control programs, uphold
Medicare Advantage's ability to offer supplemental benefits
like fitness and socialization opportunities, and enable
Medicaid to help low-income seniors improve their physical and
mental health.
Every dollar invested in community-based organizations like
YMCAs - organizations with trusted relationships and on-the-
ground credibility - pays a dividend in the form of improved
health and wellness, especially for our older adults.
Again, thank you for this opportunity today, and thank you
for your leadership.
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Prepared Witness Statements
Tori Strawter-Tanks
Thank you for the opportunity to speak before you today. My
name is Tori Strawter-Tanks, and I have the privilege of
serving as the Director of Senior Services in Clayton County,
Georgia, and the President and Founder of the Georgia
Association of Senior Centers (GASC). I am honored to be here
today to discuss a critical issue facing older adults across
the country-social isolation and the vital role senior centers
and other aging programs play in combatting it.
Senior centers are hubs of high-impact exercise, cultural
engagement, physical wellness, and lifelong learning. The Older
Americans Act contributes to funding senior centers and other
important aging services, and protecting that funding is
critical to ensuring older adults continue to have access to
the services I have spent my life carrying out.
Across Georgia, and throughout the nation, senior centers
provide vital programs that enhance the lives of older adults,
keep them socially engaged, and support their overall well-
being. These include:
Health, wellness, aquatic, technology, and fitness
classes, theatrical productions, cultural arts programs, trips,
and evidence-based programs. This programming plays a vital
role in improving seniors' physical health, reducing fall
risks, preventing chronic disease, enhancing mental well-being,
fostering creativity, promoting social engagement,
strengthening community connections, and bridging the
generational digital divide.
At Frank Bailey Senior Center in Riverdale, Georgia, we saw
firsthand the extraordinary potential of older adults when Ms.
Dorothy Steel, who started her acting career at age 80, took
her first acting class at our center. She went on to become a
Hollywood sensation, starring as a tribal elder in Marvel's
Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, proving that
dreams don't have expiration dates.
Ms. Steel's appeared in several other films. Her story is a
testament to the power of senior centers to unlock potential
and rewrite the narrative of aging.
Another essential service that senior centers provide is
congregate meals. For many older adults, these meals aren't
just about food; they are about connection, dignity, and
community.
Congregate meals ensure that seniors receive balanced,
nutritious food, reducing the risk of malnutrition and diet-
related illnesses.
They combat isolation by providing opportunities for
older adults to gather, talk, and form meaningful
relationships.
For some seniors, this may be the only hot meal they
receive in a day.
Without adequate funding for congregate meal programs, like
those provided through the Older Americans Act, too many older
adults risk going hungry or becoming further isolated.
Along the same line, home-delivered meals also provide
nutritious food, social interaction, and wellness checks for
older adults who may not be able to leave their homes. These
services are especially critical for those who are aging alone,
without family or other community support.
Additionally, transportation services provided through
assistance from federal funding help seniors get to their
medical appointments, buy fresh and healthy food at the grocery
store, and see their friends-rather than being isolated at home
because they are not able to drive.
Beyond their social and emotional benefits, senior centers
and other aging programs save our economy billions of dollars
annually. Research has shown that healthy, active seniors who
participate in community-based programs reduce healthcare costs
significantly-both for themselves and for taxpayers.
We cannot overlook the sandwich generation, those caring
for aging parents while supporting their children. As the
senior population grows, working caregivers face mounting
financial, emotional, and logistical challenges.
When older adults stay active, healthy, and engaged, it
eases the burden on their families. Without proper investment
in senior centers and community-based services, caregiving
falls heavily on adult children already juggling careers,
finances, and family life.
Access to social engagement, nutritious meals, health
programs, and transportation supports not just seniors, but
their families, workforce retention, and the economy. Yet,
despite their proven benefits, senior centers remain
underfunded, leaving many older adults struggling with barriers
like transportation, awareness, and lack of investment.
If we are serious about combatting senior isolation and
improving public health, we must:
1. Expand funding for senior centers and other aging
services
2. Improve transportation access, especially in rural
areas so that older adults can actively participate in
community life
3. Strengthen digital inclusion for seniors so they can
stay connected in a technology-driven world
4. Recognize senior centers as essential infrastructure
to support aging in place, health, and well-being
5. Invest in meal programs to fight food insecurity,
combat isolation, and promote nutrition for older adults
6. Support caregivers by ensuring seniors have access to
services that promote independence.
Social isolation is not just an individual problem, it's a
public health crisis with consequences as severe as smoking or
obesity. But, senior centers and programs like congregate and
home-delivered meals offer a proven solution, helping older
adults not only stay socially engaged but thrive in ways they
never imagined.
When we invest in senior centers, we are not just enriching
lives, we are saving money, strengthening families, supporting
working caregivers, and ensuring a better future for
generations to come.
Thank you for your time and commitment to this issue. I
look forward to your questions and to working together to build
a stronger, more connected future for our nation's seniors.
=======================================================================
Questions for the Record
=======================================================================
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Questions for the Record
Suzanne McCormick
Senator Raphael Warnock
Question:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
maintains key community partnerships to address complex public
health issues, including chronic disease. For example, the
Diabetes Prevention Program, in partnership with the YMCA and
CDC, supports evidence-based lifestyle change programs to
prevent type 2 diabetes.\1\
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\1\ What is the National DPP?, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (May 15, 2024), https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes-prevention/
programs/what-is-the-national-dpp.html.
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Why are strong investments in federal health agencies,
including the CDC, important for maintaining community
partnerships and support programs that address chronic disease
prevention?
Response:
CDC is the nation's leading science-based, data-driven
organization that protects public health through health
promotion and disease prevention. CDC's National Center on
Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and National
Center on Injury Prevention and Control have invested in the Y
to pilot and scale evidence-based programs that prevent and
control chronic diseases and prevent childhood drownings.
Health care costs in the United States are among the
highest in the world, but Americans often face worse health
outcomes than their peers in other high-income countries.
According to CDC:
An estimated 129 million people in the U.S. have at
least one major chronic disease (heart disease, cancer,
diabetes, obesity, hypertension, etc.).
Over the past two decades, the prevalence of chronic
diseases has increased steadily, and this trend is expected to
continue.
Strong federal investments in the CDC will:
Help our Ys scale proven programs and strategies that
address the nation's leading causes of death and disability,
which include heart disease, cancer, obesity, stroke,
arthritis, and diabetes.
Address chronic diseases, which impact 6 in 10
Americans.
Help the nation save money-90% of health care spending
goes to treating chronic disease as opposed to preventing these
conditions.
The public health programs and prevention activities
conducted by the CDC-in partnerships with organizations like
the Y-have been proven to be effective. They are crucial to
reducing health care costs and improving health outcomes. The Y
offers a variety of evidence-based programs to address chronic
disease and prevent drownings and, with modest funding from CDC
and the help of private philanthropy, has scaled these programs
in communities across the country (see below for examples).
CDC's National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) helps
some of the 98 million adults living with prediabetes reduce
their risk for developing the disease by taking steps that will
improve their overall health and well-being. Consider that
Research has shown that programs like the National Diabetes
Prevention Program can reduce the number of new cases of type 2
diabetes by 58%, and by 71% for adults over the age of 60.e
YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) has helped the average
participant lose 5% of their body weight and helped Medicare
save $2,650 per participant over 15 months. In April 2018,
Medicare began covering DPP. The Y is delivering the NDPP in 41
states and has served 80,842 participants at 1,159 sites.
CDC's Arthritis Program helps helps the Y expand it's
EnhancerFitness program to more people. EnhancerFitness is a
proven community-based senior fitness and arthritis management
program that helps some of the 54 million adults living with
arthritis become more active, energized, and independent. Were
you aware that EnhancerFitness program participants were found
to have fewer hospitalizations and spend $945 less in health
care per year than non-participants. Now offered at 258 Ys in
634 sites in 45 states, the program has reached 42,584
individuals living with arthritis.
CDC's Heart Disease and Stroke Program supports the Y's
Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program, which helps some of the
116 million Americans living with hypertension prevent heart
disease and stroke by getting their condition under control
through tracking their blood pressure and receiving nutrition
education. Importantly, today, three in four people living with
hypertension do not have their condition under control. As of
2024, there were 13,718 participants across 41 states who
experienced an average reduction of 8.6% in systolic blood
pressure and 4.8% in diastolic blood pressure through the Y's
program.
CDC's Comprehensive Cancer Program supports the LIVESTRONGr
at the YMCA program, which helps some of the 18 million
Americans who are living with, though, or beyond cancer to
strengthen their spirit, mind, and body with physical activity
programs. Recent clinical trials from the Yale Cancer Center
and Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Institute confirmed that
LIVESTRONGr at the YMCA participants experienced improved
fitness and quality of life as well as significant decreases in
cancer-related fatigue. Ys have served more than 85,477 cancer
survivors in 42 states.
CDC's Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity Programs
help evaluate and scale Family-based weight management programs
like the Y's Healthy Weight and Your Child, an evidence-based
program that equips 7- to 13-year-olds and their families with
the knowledge and skills to live a healthier lifestyle.
Research showed a statistically significant reduction in body
mass index, sedentary activities and improvements in physical
activity and self-esteem at 6 and 12 months. The program is
being delivered in 31 states across the country. Strategies
that increase community access to safe places to walk and bike.
In closing, the Y supports the highest level of funding
possible for the CDC's programs that prevent and control
chronic disease in order to scale programs that work in
partnership with states and community-based organizations.
Thank you.
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Questions for the Record
Tori Strawter-Tanks
Senator Raphael Warnock
Question:
As Director of Clayton County Senior Services, you have
witnessed firsthand how senior and intergenerational centers
positively affect the lives of older adults, families, and
entire communities across the state of Georgia.
Can you share specific challenges that older adults and
families across Georgia might face should federal funding for
senior programs be reduced or limited?
Response:
1. Service Reductions or Eliminations
Fewer people served: Programs may have to prioritize the
most at-risk clients, leaving many without services.
Waitlists would grow: Individuals who previously
received help may be put on indefinite waitlists.
Program closures: Some services (like congregate meals
at senior centers) might be shut down entirely in some areas.
2. Increased Risk for Older Adults
Malnutrition: Loss of meals (home-delivered or
congregate) can lead to poor nutrition and worsening health.
Increased isolation: Reduced transportation or closure
of senior centers limits social interaction, increasing
depression and cognitive decline.
Unmet healthcare needs: Without transportation or case
management, seniors may miss critical medical appointments or
medication pickups.
Safety risks: Without home repairs or in-home care,
falls and hospitalizations may rise.
3. Greater Long-Term Costs
More emergency room visits and hospitalizations: When
basic needs aren't met, healthcare costs rise significantly.
Earlier nursing home placement: Seniors without
caregiver or in-home support may be institutionalized
prematurely, which is more costly for both families and the
state.
4. Job Loss and Local Economic Impact
Fewer staff positions: Reductions in funding may lead to
layoffs of drivers, case managers, and program coordinators.
Strain on caregivers: Family members may have to leave
work or reduce hours to care for loved ones, affecting
household incomes and overall productivity.
5. Pressure on State and Local Governments
Without federal support, state and local governments
would face pressure to fill the funding gap , often without
sufficient resources.
Counties with fewer tax dollars (especially rural ones)
would be disproportionately affected.
Question:
Why is predictable funding important for the operations of
senior centers?
Response:
Predictable funding is critical for the successful
operation of senior centers because it provides the stability
and security needed to plan, operate, and grow programs that
directly support older adults.
1. Stability for Essential Services
Senior centers provide vital daily services, like meals,
transportation, fitness, education, and socialization.
Predictable funding ensures these can continue without
interruption.
Older adults rely on consistent access, and gaps in
funding could cause programs to shut down temporarily or
permanently.
2. Long-Term Planning and Program Development
Predictable funding allows staff to strategically plan
for:
New programs
Seasonal events
Community partnerships
Facility improvements
Without reliable funding, long-term planning is replaced
by crisis management and uncertainty.
3. Staffing and Retention
With steady funding, senior centers can hire and retain
qualified staff, including social workers, drivers, program
coordinators, and health educators.
Frequent funding fluctuations can lead to layoffs, low
morale, and high turnover.
4. Consistent Vendor & Supply Relationships
Many centers rely on external vendors for meals,
supplies, transportation services, and programming.
Predictable funding ensures timely payments and helps
maintain strong vendor relationships, which can result in
better pricing and service.
5. Community Trust and Engagement
When the community sees reliable services and
programming, it builds trust and participation.
Older adults feel safe and supported when they know the
center will be there for them tomorrow, next month, and next
year.
6. Stronger Grant Writing & Fundraising
Consistent funding provides a foundation that can be
built upon with private donations, sponsorships, and
competitive grants.
Grantmakers and donors are more likely to contribute to
centers that show financial stability and sustainability.
=======================================================================
Statements for the Record
=======================================================================
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
The Alzheimer's Association and Alzheimer's Impact Movement (AIM)
Statement
The Alzheimer's Association and Alzheimer's Impact Movement
(AIM) thank the Committee for its continued leadership on
issues crucial to individuals living with Alzheimer's and other
dementias. We appreciate the opportunity to submit this
statement for the record for the Senate Special Committee on
Aging hearing on "Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness:
Strengthening Family and Community Support." This statement
highlights the profound impact of senior loneliness and social
isolation on our nation's aging population, particularly those
at risk of developing or who are living with Alzheimer's or
another dementia.
Founded in 1980, the Alzheimer's Association is the world's
leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care,
support, and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's
disease and other dementias through the advancement of
research, to provide and enhance care and support for all
affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the
promotion of brain health. AIM is the Association's advocacy
affiliate, working in a strategic partnership to make
Alzheimer's a national priority. Together, the Alzheimer's
Association and AIM advocate for policies to fight Alzheimer's
disease, including increased investment in research, improved
care and support, and the development of approaches to reduce
the risk of developing dementia.
The Critical Role of Family Caregivers
People living with Alzheimer's disease may experience
changes in the ability to hold or follow a conversation. As a
result, they may withdraw from hobbies, social activities, or
other engagements. Caregivers of individuals living with
Alzheimer's or another dementia play an essential role in
combating this, maintaining the quality of life for their loved
ones, and helping them live independently in their homes and
communities for as long as possible. They are the backbone of
our nation's health care system. However, the immense physical,
emotional, and financial toll of caregiving often leaves them
socially isolated themselves. In fact, 41 percent of dementia
caregivers report having no additional unpaid assistance,
highlighting the urgent need for stronger support systems. In
2023 alone, more than 11 million caregivers provided 18.4
billion hours of unpaid care - valued at nearly $350 billion -
underscoring their indispensable role in our health care
system.There are several types of caregiver interventions
designed to assist caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's
or another dementia, such as support groups, which provide
caregivers the opportunity to share personal feelings and
concerns to overcome feelings of isolation in a community-based
setting.
It is evident that Alzheimer's takes a devastating toll on
caregivers, from facing social isolation to battling the
financial strain associated with caregiving. Amid these
challenges, there is an urgent need to alleviate the
overwhelming costs faced by caregivers. We strongly support the
bipartisan Credit for Caring Act (S. 925/H.R. 2036), which
would create a new, nonrefundable federal tax credit of up to
$5,000 for eligible working family caregivers of individuals,
regardless of age, with certain functional or cognitive
limitations. The tax credit would help alleviate some of the
financial strain on these selfless caregivers nationwide and
could be used to offset some of the costs of caregiving,
including the costs of respite care, transportation, lost
wages, and more. We look forward to working with Congress and
members of the Committee to advance the bipartisan Credit for
Caring Act and other legislation to support caregivers, as they
enhance the longevity and quality of life for our aging
population.
Expanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (Project ECHO)
Technology-enabled learning models, such as Project ECHO,
are also transforming the way health care providers support
individuals with Alzheimer's-especially in rural areas. These
education models, often referred to as Project ECHO, can
improve the capacity of providers, especially those in rural
and underserved areas, on how to best meet the needs of people
living with Alzheimer's. Project ECHO helps primary care
physicians in real-time understand how to use validated
assessment tools appropriate for virtual use to make early and
accurate diagnoses, educate families about the diagnosis and
home management strategies, and help caregivers understand the
behavioral changes associated with Alzheimer's, which can be
heightened during isolation. We ask that Congress continues to
support provisions expanding the use of technology-enabled
collaborative learning models. Expanding these programs will
not only improve dementia care but also strengthen the support
networks that help individuals with Alzheimer's and their
caregivers feel less alone.
Social Isolation as a Dementia Risk Factor
As of 2024, nearly 7 million Americans are living with
Alzheimer's, a number expected to rise to nearly 13 million by
2050. Some researchers have surmised that factors such as
social isolation from COVID-19 lockdowns, for example, no-
visitor policies in long-term care facilities, and increased
intensive hospitalizations may increase dementia risk at the
population level, but research in coming years will be
necessary to confirm this and examine whether the impact is
time-limited or long term. With many more at risk of developing
the disease or another form of dementia, the need for effective
dementia risk reduction strategies that help all communities
increases by the day. Two-thirds of Americans have at least one
major potential risk factor for dementia. As the prevalence of
dementia continues to rise, addressing modifiable risk factors
- such as staying mentally and socially active and physical
activity - is essential not only to reduce the number of new
cases but also to prevent current projections from worsening.
Population-based and epidemiologic studies show that
certain modifiable risk factors can increase the risk of
cognitive decline and possibly dementia. A growing body of
evidence shows that healthy behaviors can protect and promote
brain health. Given the growing evidence that lifestyle factors
play a significant role in cognitive health, larger studies are
essential to further understand how we can effectively reduce
the risk of cognitive decline and help individuals live longer,
happier lives. The Alzheimer's Association U.S. Study to
Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce
Risk (U.S. POINTER) is a two-year clinical trial to evaluate
whether lifestyle interventions that simultaneously target many
risk factors protect cognitive function in older adults with an
increased risk for cognitive decline. U.S. POINTER is the first
such study conducted on a large group of Americans across the
United States. Approximately 2,000 volunteer older adults who
are at increased risk for dementia have been enrolled and will
be followed for two years. Two lifestyle interventions will be
compared, which vary in intensity and format. Eligible
volunteers are randomly assigned to these interventions to
evaluate whether cognitive benefits from a structured program
differ from a self-guided program. Lifestyle interventions
combining multiple behavior components show promise as a
therapeutic strategy to protect brain health. We look forward
to sharing the results of this groundbreaking study soon.
Conclusion
By prioritizing policies supporting caregivers and
combating social isolation and senior loneliness, we can help
the aging population live longer, healthier lives. The
Alzheimer's Association and AIM deeply appreciate the
Committee's continued commitment to advancing issues vital to
the millions of families affected by Alzheimer's disease and
other dementias. We look forward to working with the Committee
in a bipartisan way to combat senior loneliness and improve
quality of life for those impacted by dementia.
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
ASHA Statement
The American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) appreciates
the opportunity to submit this statement for the record
regarding the March 12, 2025, Senate Aging Committee hearing,
Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family
and Community Support.
ASHA is a national organization of over 500 senior living
companies that own, operate, or provide services to
approximately 7,000 senior living communities across the U.S.,
including independent living, assisted living, memory care and
life plan/continuing care retirement communities. The
Association's programs are focused on promoting quality and
innovation, advancing research, exchanging strategic business
information, and educating seniors and their families about the
benefits of senior living communities.
As such, we have a keen interest in the policy agenda of
the Senate Aging Committee and encourage the committee to look
to ASHA as a resource for timely and relevant research on
issues that impact seniors relative to their housing options
and long-term care needs.
We appreciate the Committee addressing what has been
described as an epidemic of loneliness. While the harmful
effects of loneliness are currently receiving much needed
attention, it has long been a top-of-mind issue for our members
who prioritize social engagement as a core benefit of seniors'
housing. The industry welcomes the opportunity to create more
awareness about what it is achieving to combat this serious
public health issue through the hard work and dedication of
senior living professionals, compassionate caregivers and other
essential team members.
Our comments focus on the following:
The epidemic of loneliness and its harmful health
impacts
How senior living communities promote social engagement
in creative and innovative ways
Important policies to address loneliness should be
advanced in Congress and Agencies
The Epidemic of Loneliness and Harmful Health Impacts is Well
Documented
As the population ages, it is critical that our nation
adequately meets the demands of providing quality long-term
care, especially given the significant and growing numbers of
seniors who are lonely, isolated and socially disconnected.
According to Johns Hopkins, nearly 25% of adults aged 65 and
older are considered socially isolated-as they're more likely
to live alone or experience the loss of family members and
friends. Facilitating opportunities for connection for older
adults is one way to address the heightened risk of loneliness.
In a report by the National Academies of Sciences,
Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), findings on loneliness and
social isolation in older adults conclude that social isolation
significantly increases an individual's risk of premature death
from all causes, rivaling the risks associated with smoking,
obesity, and physical inactivity. Social isolation was
associated with a 50 percent increased risk of dementia, a 29
percent increased risk of heart disease, and a 32 percent
increased risk of stroke. These are stunning outcomes that
should prompt action to address ways to mitigate the source of
these harms.
We are grateful your committee is raising the visibility of
this epidemic among seniors, and we look forward to assisting
with your efforts.
Senior Living Promotes Socialization and Engagement as a Core
Benefit to Residents
There are approximately two million older adults who call
senior living "home", and numerous reasons why they move into a
community. In addition to the myriad services offered, the
added benefit of promoting social engagement with others in the
community ranks among the most important aspects of senior
living for residents and family members.
The average assisted living resident is an 84-year-old
woman who is widowed, has multiple chronic and functional
limitations, requires assistance with her activities of daily
living such as, bathing, eating, and dressing. She and her
family are looking for quality care, safe housing and balanced
nutrition in an environment that allows for independence (with
assistance, as needed) and the ability to age in place with
dignity. These services are the core characteristics of senior
living, but creating opportunities for engagement and personal
connection is intrinsic to everything offered in a community.
Life in a community means always having something to do -
and people to enjoy life with, creating a meaningful lifestyle.
We know the role that social, economic and physical living
conditions play in achieving good health, well-being, and
quality of life. These non-medical factors (the "social
determinants of health") that influence health care outcomes
are at the heart of senior living. This doesn't just happen; it
is purposeful in design with the goal of creating environments
where residents have the opportunity to thrive.
Given the high priority senior living providers place on
the benefits of socialization, ASHA sponsored a research report
to focus on this topic. We are pleased to share with the
Committee,: Senior Living Communities: Uniquely Positioned to
Reduce Social Isolation and Promote Social Connection in Older
Adults. This brief was prepared for ASHA by ATI Advisory and
included a literature review, senior living company surveys and
individual case studies that highlight the impact of social
opportunities on residents' wellbeing.
The goals of this report were twofold:
(1) to explore the relationship of social isolation to
physical and mental health outcomes and utilization of health
care services and;
(2) to highlight approaches that senior living
communities are taking to reduce social isolation and promote
social connection among their residents.
I hope you will find this full report of value to your
efforts in further addressing this issue. For purposes of the
statement, I want to highlight a few key observations in the
report.
Key Observations:
Senior living plays a critical role in reducing social
isolation among older adult residents, limiting the risk of
negative health effects and promoting critical social
connections. Many residents move into a community and become
more active than when they lived in their former home.
Senior living improves quality of life by fostering a
cohesive social environment and encouraging participation in
social activities. The authors highlight a recent study which
found that senior living residents had increased resilience,
mood, optimism and satisfaction with their lives compared to
their counterparts in the general population.
Senior living offers diverse activities to meet the
needs, desires, and interests of their varied community base.
Quality of life is improved by offering opportunities that
promote resident and community connection.
Case studies demonstrate that while no two senior living
communities are the same, they offer innovative approaches to
promoting social engagement. See more below.
Senior living socialization efforts, enhanced during the
COVID pandemic, continued, albeit with a twist. While
interaction with friends and family decreased during the
pandemic, virtual interaction dramatically increased. Staff
were on hand to navigate new technologies, thus uncovering new
ways senior living communities allowed for greater access to
social, physical and intellectual wellness than their
counterparts living in the greater community.
Figure 1: Senior Living Communities Offer Diverse
Opportunities for Social Connection
[GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Other Studies/Reports:
NORC/University of Chicago: Findings demonstrate that upon
moving into senior housing, vulnerability increases for a short
period as residents settle into their new community before
leveling off and showing improvement. "Non-medical care and
services like socialization, transportation, exercise, balanced
nutrition, medication management, and others have a positive
impact on a resident's health," said Dianne Munevar, lead
researcher at NORC.
US News and World Report: Released new findings from their
survey of residents who had recently moved into senior living
communities and their families about their experiences with
loneliness, the health impacts of social isolation and how
moving into a senior living community positively changed that
experience. (How Senior Living Communities Reduce Loneliness
and Improve Senior Health: 2025 U.S. News Survey Report)
Important Policies to Address Loneliness Should be Advanced in
Congress and Agencies
There are many opportunities Congress can take to enact
policies and programs and raise general awareness about and
enhance what is already available. The Senate Special Committee
on Aging is positioned to do this by promoting policies to call
more attention to the harms of loneliness and incentivizing
creative programing to enhance social engagement in senior
living communities
The Social Engagement and Network Initiatives for Older
Relief (SENIOR) Act (Senior Act) creates a meaningful approach
to initiating the broader conversation on loneliness among
older adults. Adding loneliness to the definition of disease
prevention and health promotion services under the Older
Americans Act, requiring the Department of Health and Human
Services to create a report on the effects of loneliness on
older adults, and recommending solutions and analyzing the
relationships between multigenerational family units, has the
ability to place this health crisis front and center in the
minds of policymakers, health care providers and systems,
academics, research institutions and the entire long term care
industry.
The Care Across Generations Act. There is much evidence
to date to indicate that fostering relationships between young
and old are beneficial to both in terms of increased
socialization and overall wellbeing. Taking action to increase
such arrangements is encouraged. ASHA supports additional
voluntary programs that encourage these relationships. The Care
Across Generations Act is a worthy program to encourage these
relationships. We need to promote intergenerational care, such
as encouraging child-care and early-learning programs to be
established in relation to senior living communities.
Other Areas for Consideration:
Workforce Shortage in Senior Living: Given the importance
of senior living as a positive factor in addressing the crisis
of loneliness, it is important that the industry continue to
meet the current and future needs of the aging population. To
do so, it is important that policymakers understand the
workforce challenges we are facing in the caregiver, nurse
assistant, housekeeper, and dining staff positions.
ASHA supports an "all of the above" solution that creates a
pipeline of caregivers in a number of ways including 1) through
workforce training and development programs, specifically
targeted for long term care positions; and, 2) the advancement
of proposals to enact legal immigration reform for worker
visas, to allow foreign workers to work in the senior living
industry to help meet the growing needs.
There are simply not enough native-born workers to meet the
current and future demand for long-term care. Left unresolved,
it will ultimately impact the ability to care for older adults.
As the aging population grows exponentially, organic workforce
growth in the country is expected to stagnate. We understand
the need to address border security, but we also need to create
a legal immigration process where visas are made available to
caregivers and other essential workers in long term care. We
support efforts to address both challenges.
Costs of Long-Term Care: In addition to sharing and
promoting these favorable studies and reports about the
benefits of senior living in reducing the level of loneliness
for older adults, it is also important to recognize the cost
effectiveness of senior living relative to other settings.
Specifically, as explained in the ASHA sponsored report,
The Surprising Price of Staying in a House, Cost Comparisons
Often Favor Senior Living, the emphasis on keeping people in
their homes at all costs may be shortsighted. While we
understand most people do not want to leave their homes given
their personal attachment, the decision should not be based on
cost alone, without further examination of what it takes
financially to remain in the home.
A recent analysis challenges the cost assumptions. The math
most seniors and families use does not capture all of the costs
associated with living in a house, such as taxes, insurance,
HOA fees, maintenance, system failures, etc. or enjoying meals
and transportation to appointments, grocery store, movies, etc.
When all of these factors are considered, the costs tell a
different story. This information should be made widely
available to older adults in all public service information
sharing efforts to ensure they have important facts to make an
informed decision. NOTE: The figures below under Home Health
Care, do not reflect a 24/7 care environment as included in
assisted living. Therefore, as more hours are needed, the costs
grow exponentially.
[GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
ASHA welcomes the opportunity to create more awareness
among the Senate Aging Committee about what the industry is
achieving in senior care for residents, caregivers, families,
and the broader healthcare system. As noted above, the senior
living industry's work to promote social engagement and thus
reduce the associated health risks is especially relevant to
the current inquiry by the Committee. The hard work and
dedication of senior living professionals and the overwhelming
resident and family satisfaction deserves to be recognized.
The aging population and booming demand for long-term care
in the very near future requires policy makers to give serious
thought to innovative approaches to create more options for
older adults who need care and housing. We look forward to
working with the Committee to advance opportunities to meet
this critical need.
Sincerely,
/s/
David Schless
President and CEO
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
ASHA: Senior Living Communities Report
[GRAPHICS NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
ASHA: The Surpassing Price of Staying in a House Report
[GRAPHICS NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
James Balda Statement
ADDENDUM: Testimonials from senior living stakeholders on
importance of socialization in senior living communities.
***
Helen, a 97-year-old woman from the Bay Area, had been
struggling at home with loneliness and feeling particularly
isolated, especially since she had lost her husband. Feeling
resigned to leave her home behind, which for her symbolized
leaving her entire life behind, she reluctantly made the
decision to move into one of our Bay Area Assisted Living
communities. To her surprise, she found renewal when she met
Barbara, another resident in her nineties, and today the two
are inseparable. As Helen told us in an interview with the
pair, "We just have a very close friendship. Barbara has a
heart of gold, and I just love her. I never thought I would
find my best friend at age 97."
***
George and Mary have led a full life together - raising
their children, traveling the world, and enjoying virtually
every outdoor pursuit one can imagine. When George was
diagnosed with Lewy body dementia with Parkinsonism, Mary
stoically took on the role of caregiver. But within weeks, she
began experiencing extreme symptoms of stress and anxiety. "I
wound up in the hospital. I was ignoring my best friend's needs
over some misconception of mine that I had to do it," she
shares in this documentary video. She and her family made the
decision to bring George into one of our communities, and it
has been transformative for them. Today, Mary continues to live
at home just a few miles from the community. One might think
she would be lonely living alone, but she's not. She still
spends much of each day with George, engaging in life in the
community alongside him and the other residents and associates
in our Prema Memory Support neighborhood. "George is doing so
much better," says Mary. "The Nayas here love their work, they
love being with the residents. George has made friends with the
Nayas. They are able to be with one another as family."
(Watermark's Nayas, which is a Sanskrit word for "guide," are
more than caregivers - they participate in daily life alongside
our memory care residents.) In many ways, the decision to move
George into our community enabled them both to regain strength
and find new modes of engagement, while avoiding loneliness.
"We've always had a very adventuresome life," says Mary. "And
it's continuing."
***
The health and well-being benefits of socialization at our
communities are enjoyed not just among people, but also between
people and animals. Every Watermark community is pet-friendly.
And among Watermark's award-winning signature programs is In
the Presence of Horses, which brings equine therapy into the
community, enabling residents and horses to interact in ways
that benefit both. Janet, a resident in Memory Care in one of
our Tucson communities who came to us at age 93 with late-stage
dementia, had not spoken a word in nearly a year. Her daughter,
who visited her regularly at the community, was bereft at
seeing her mom slip away. But in her first week at the
community, Janet met Brown, one of the program's horses, and
there was an instant connection. "It was as if this horse knew
her, and she knew him," said the equine program director. At
another session just a few weeks later, Janet greeted Brown
with a "Hello." And from that day forward she was speaking
again, which also enabled her to reconnect with her daughter.
***
Panelists share how they use content as a versatile and
scalable tool to deliver outstanding resident engagement
programs for veterans and memory care groups; session includes
stories about the importance of enriching versus entertaining
and their strategies for implementing technology to help your
community flourish.
https://lifeloop.com/flourishing-communities-sitter-
barfoot-veterans-care-center-on-demand-webinar-ty
***
Breaking the Cycle of Senior Isolation: A Community Story
When Hurricane Helene tore through Western North Carolina,
it didn't just damage homes-it cut off the most vulnerable. In
the rural townships of Ramsay Creek and Bernardsville, seniors
were already struggling with isolation, living miles apart with
limited transportation and spotty phone service. Many relied on
neighbors, local groups, or a rare internet connection for
help. But when the storm hit, those lifelines disappeared.
From Isolation to Connection
With power and communication down, many seniors were left
alone, unable to call for help or even know when it might come.
For those with mobility issues, getting food or medicine became
impossible. Roads were flooded, homes were unreachable, and
fear set in.
In Bernardsville, the community supply center became a
beacon of hope. What had once been a quiet space turned into an
emergency hub. Volunteers worked tirelessly, delivering food,
water, and medication to those who had no way to get to safety.
For many seniors, it was the first human contact they had in
days.
More Than a Roof Over Their Heads
For some, the storm took everything. Their homes, already
fragile, were now unsafe-waterlogged, crumbling, and unlivable.
The reality of displacement hit hard, especially for those who
had lived in the same place for decades. Losing their homes
meant losing familiarity, routine, and a sense of security.
A church in Spruce Pine opened its doors, turning its
sanctuary into a temporary shelter. Volunteers set up cots,
cooked meals, and offered comfort to those who had nowhere else
to go. But as days turned to weeks, it became clear that this
wasn't a permanent solution. These seniors needed real, stable
housing-something ALG immediately began working on with local
leaders and families to make happen. Through these efforts, we
were able to house around 25 seniors.
Beyond the Storm: Building a Future of Connection
Hurricane Helene was more than a disaster-it was a wake-up
call. It exposed how fragile the support system for seniors in
rural areas really is. It showed how critical human connection
is, not just in emergencies, but every day.
Since the storm, communities have stepped up. Volunteer
programs now pair seniors with regular check-ins. Local
organizations are improving transportation access. Plans are in
motion to strengthen emergency networks so no senior is left
alone in a crisis.
Isolation doesn't have to be a way of life. Through
connection, compassion, and proactive support, these
communities are proving that seniors can do more than just
survive-they can thrive.
***
Meet Zelma Bennett, one of our newest residents at
Commonwealth Senior Living at Stratford House. Zelma moved into
our community on January 29th, after spending the past year
living with a friend. Zelma, who had previously run a group
home for adults, enjoyed maintaining a vibrant social life with
assistance, but her memory loss prompted her to seek a
community where she could continue engaging socially while
receiving the support she needed. From the moment she arrived,
Zelma embraced every opportunity for socialization,
participating in nearly every activity offered. She uses her
calendar so frequently to keep track of events that she wears
it out and needs to replace it before the month's end! Her
enthusiasm has been contagious, and she has made many new
friends in a short time. Zelma's story is just one example of
how socialization in our communities has dramatically improved
the quality of life for seniors. The friendships and activities
she's engaged in have helped alleviate her feelings of
loneliness and have given her a renewed sense of purpose and
joy. We are so grateful she chose to join our community.
-Dale Smith, Resident Program Director, Commonwealth Senior
Living at Stratford House
***
Testimonials from Brookdale Residents:
One of my biggest fears is being all alone in the world. We
just enjoy doing things together and talking and it just works.
We are a group.
***
I think it just enriches your life. It gets rid of that
loneliness that so many people at this stage in their life
experience.
***
Not only do you have somebody else that you feel like you
can talk to, but it's also supporting that somebody else and
knowing that they're going to support you.
***
To me, Friends for Life means that the people that you meet
here are going to be your friends for life because no matter
where you go, these people have impacted your life. They've
enriched your life. Hopefully you've enriched theirs.
***
The closeness that is offered to making yourself feel at
home is to have that beautiful relationship with all of these
people. Friendships are very, very important. I feel that being
a friend means being there through the good times as well as
the bad. Just being with people has taught me so much about the
healing power of friendship.
***
I must tell you, I didn't know I was lonely until I moved
into Brookdale. And to this day, I have wonderful friends that
I luncheon with. And it's just a privilege. I found my people
at Brookdale. It's the people I break bread with. We care for
each other. And it's wonderful. It's like an extended family,
really and truly.
***
We all talk and we all laugh. And that's good for
everybody. It is certainly good to live here and do it all.
***
I told my kids, I want to move where there'll be friends
and social things because I needed it. And it's been absolutely
marvelous. So I'm really glad. And the people I met, I felt
closer to because this gives us a chance to kind of live again.
***
And now you can't be lonesome because there's somebody on
the elevator. There's somebody sitting with you at a meal.
There's people all around you. All you have to do is reach out.
I don't know what I would do without these people.
***
We have a nice bunch of friends. And you know what? We
confide in each other. We tell each other things. We sit and we
talk to each other and we hug each other. You know, this is
part of our everyday routine.
***
I noticed these ladies sitting at a table in the lounge and
they seem to be having fun and they're chattering away. So I
said, "May I join you?" And they said, "Yes." And the rest is
history. I love them all dearly and they're fun to be with.
***
Nolan is a native Oregonian, born in Bend in May of 1938.
When he was seven, he and his family moved Eugene, OR where
Nolan lived until about ten years ago, moving to Gresham, OR.
Sadly, when Nolan's wife passed away, he began experiencing
some health concerns, landing him in the hospital. Nolan's
family reached out to Merrill Gardens at Sheldon Park for an
evaluation. At that time our Senior Health Services Director,
Kellie Williams, drove from Eugene to Mt. Hood to meet Nolan.
After meeting Nolan, it was an easy YES from Kellie as
Nolan wasn't a hard sell with his giant grin and kind heart. He
was soon to be part of the Sheldon Park family.
Now, here's the most heartfelt part! Nolan recently called
Kellie over to his table and stated, "You saved my life!" When
Kellie asked what Nolan was speaking of, he shared a story of
what he calls a heroic act.
Nolan's water heater at his home in Mt. Hood was found to
be leaking natural gas (carbon monoxide) for quite some time.
Nolan was unknowingly being poisoned in his home. Nolan stated,
"I was sitting in a time bomb and didn't even know it. It may
have killed me if you had not got me moved here."
Nolan expresses deep gratitude to the Merrill Gardens team
for "saving" him. We are all so thankful Nolan is safe, happy
and healthy. He is a true delight and brings so much joy to our
community.
Thank you, Nolan, for letting us be part of your family.
***
Truewood by Merrill, Keller, Texas
When Mr. Jerry first arrived in our memory care unit he was
faced with a whirlwind of life changes. Having just lost his
wife and relocated from California to Texas, he understandably
felt scared, withdrawn, and overwhelmed by the unknown. The
adjustment to such significant changes in his life wasn't easy,
and it took time for him to trust us.
However, through consistent, one-on-one interactions and
building a relationship based on sharing our personal stories
and experiences, we were able to earn his trust. Over time, Mr.
Jerry began to let his guard down, allowing us to become a part
of his journey. He found comfort in our steady presence, and it
wasn't long before he became an ambassador for our community.
Now, Mr. Jerry is an integral part of our family here. He
regularly expresses his gratitude for the staff and shares how
much he loves living here. You can often find him participating
in bingo games, solving crossword puzzles under our reading
tree, or most joyfully, spending time with his daughter and
grandchildren around the community. His joy is contagious, and
it brings so much warmth to all of us.
Mr. Jerry holds a special place in our hearts, and we are
honored to be a part of his extended family. His transformation
from a scared, withdrawn newcomer to a vibrant, engaged member
of our community is a testament to the strength of his
character and the bond we share with him. We are truly grateful
to have him here with us.
***
Just four short months ago, a sweet and gentle woman joined
our memory care unit. At first, she was very shy and quiet, and
her husband, deeply devoted to her, would come in several times
a day to check on her. He shared that his wife wouldn't eat
unless he was there with her, and she would be hesitant to
participate in activities unless he was present. She also
didn't like noise, having lived a quiet, settled life at home.
For the first few weeks, her husband kept to his routine,
sitting in on meals, participating in activities, and ensuring
she was away from any noise. It was clear how much he cared for
her, and we respected their need for comfort and familiarity.
However, on one particular day, he had a doctor's appointment,
and we decided to gently test the waters by bringing her out
for some musical entertainment. We knew that music was
something she enjoyed, as we often heard her husband sing songs
to her during their walks through the unit.
Sure enough, the music was just what she needed. She began
to relax, her smile brightening with each note. One song even
got her up out of her seat, and before we knew it, she was
clapping and dancing-something we had never seen before. We
managed to capture the moment on video, and when we showed it
to her husband, his face lit up with surprise and joy. His
gratitude was overwhelming, and he couldn't thank us enough for
taking the chance and helping her break free from her shell.
That moment marked a turning point. From that day forward,
her husband knew he could trust us to do what was best for his
wife. He no longer felt the weight of needing to be present for
every meal or activity, knowing she was in good hands. She had
found her comfort, and he shares with us often how much she's
growing. Not only was she comfortable without him, but he began
participating in activities as well, knowing that she was safe
and content.
The progress we've seen in her has been truly remarkable.
What started as a quiet, reserved woman has blossomed into
someone who now enjoys the company of others, embraces
activities, and even dances to her favorite songs. This
transformation wouldn't have been possible without the trust,
patience, and understanding of both her and her husband-and we
are grateful of having the privilege of supporting them on
their journey.
***
Merrill Gardens at Sheldon Park, Eugene, OR
When Shirley moved in with us, she was very quiet, reserved
and preferred to stay in her apartment. After a short
adjustment period she felt comfortable with joining in
conversations in the dining room and became fast friends with
Donna. The two of them are now darn near inseparable and
Shirley is out socializing more often than not.
Frieda moved in with Bill and his care was her singular
focus. After he passed, she enjoyed the sense of community and
her neighbors made her want to stay. She is often found with
Weezy and laughing and joking. She tells everyone she meets how
much she loves it here and often says "I can't imagine going
home to that empty house and having no one to talk to. You all
have provided that sense of community that I didn't know I
needed.
***
Merrill Gardens at The University, Seattle WA
We have a resident who moved into our community in his 70s,
initially planning to stay only for six months. He loved it
here so much that he's been with us for almost four years and
doesn't plan to leave. He fell in love with the sense of
community. When he walks out of his apartment every morning, he
greets our receptionist and says hello to those in the bistro,
reading their morning paper with a cup of coffee. He has
considered moving to a regular apartment building, but he
wouldn't want to be anywhere else because you don't get the
sense of community elsewhere. This resident spends most of his
time out and about during the day but loves coming home to his
own apartment in the community he loves and has now called home
for the past four years.
***
Merrill Gardens at Kirkland, Kirkland, WA
Prior to moving into a Merrill Gardens at Kirkland Senior
Living , Joann M, age 88, a widow of 18 years, lived alone
independently in her own home. The isolation took a toll on
both her physical health as well as her cognitive health.
Because of the social isolation, she spent most of her time
sitting in her chair, reading or watching movies on her IPAD.
Family noticed that she started to become withdrawn and showed
a lack of interest with most things. She also became less
sturdy on her feet and at times they would notice bruises on
her face and body, as well as watching her walk in pain
concealing that she had fallen. She finally made the decision
that she had been putting off and agreed that it was time to
move into a community to make new friends and to start getting
active again. Within a few short months of embracing the new
community, her strength and balance came back. She started
going on all the outing, participated in all the social
activities, and never missed a meal with her new friends.
Family reported that all cognitive concerns had gone away since
she moved in, and this resident never had a fall during the two
years she moved to this senior living community. The community
described her as a resident that was aging backwards in real
time. When we talked to this resident and asked if she had any
regrets about leaving her home and moving to the community, she
told us bluntly, YES, I regret not moving in five years sooner.
This was the best decision she had made in the last 20 years,
and she was having the time of her life.
This resident is my own mother who just recently passed
away. She absolutely loved living at Merrill Gardens at
Kirkland
-Brian Madgett, General Manager
***
Merrill Gardens at Burien, Burien, WA
The community had a resident who was never married, was
scared, living alone in her own home, failing mentally and
physically. Was fiercely independent, however friends noticed
she needed help and was able to have her move to our community.
She has since regained weight, is very active within the
community and now has a fellow resident as her "boyfriend" and
living her best life.
A family from California toured with us months back wanting
to move to Washington to be with local family in a year or so.
Unhappily, the husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer. It
was so very important for the children to get Mom & Dad up to
WA and in our community - knowing that when Dad passed if Mom
was not already living in a senior community their fear was Mom
would follow Dad soon after. The family was able to move them
in, Dad on hospice and passing soon after their arrival. The
community of residents and staff wrapped their arms around her,
and she is thriving; active and engaged.
***
Merrill Gardens at Renton Centre, Renton, WA
When we first met her, Maureen refused to get out of bed.
Her apartment was dark at 3:00 in the afternoon and she was
still in bed. She hadn't eaten, showered, or dressed for the
day. I began seeing her on a regular basis and talking with her
daughter, who lives out of state. I started to accompany her on
medical appointments. Because of her memory impairment, she
couldn't ever recall what was said at prior appointments. I
took notes, which I shared with our staff and her daughter.
A number of things resulted from the initial visit. The
doctor prescribed antidepressants. Our nurse scheduled a
virtual care conference with her daughter. All agreed that
Maureen needed more care than she was currently receiving. With
constant encouragement, she began to take baby steps toward a
more fulfilling life. She started dressing up and having all of
her meals in the dining room. We connected her with in-house
therapists and she began receiving both physical and
occupational therapy. Maureen began to thrive in our community.
She missed entertaining her friends for tea in her home. I
helped her to reconnect with those friends and invited them to
her apartment for high tea, complete with scones, finger
sandwiches, and petit fours (thanks to our chef). She also made
new friends in the community. Thanks to these interventions,
Maureen developed a brighter outlook and "a new lease on life"
(her words) at age 91.
***
Patricia Will, Founder and CEO of Belmont Village Senior
Living, moderated a webinar entitled "Resilience and Wisdom in
Senior Housing Communities" presented by Dr. Dilip V. Jeste,
M.D., a renowned geriatric neuro-psychiatrist and Director of
the Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging at the
University of California San Diego. . In the webinar, Dr. Jeste
addressed conditions experienced by aging seniors, such as
loneliness and isolation, and how a senior's quality of life
can be improved by promoting the inherent resilience and wisdom
of seniors when living in an engaging, communal environment
among peers. . Dr. Jeste explained that older adults are at
increased risk for loneliness and social isolation because they
are more likely to face difficulties in living alone, the loss
of family or friends, chronic illness, and hearing loss.
Loneliness is described as the distress caused by a feeling of
being alone, while social isolation is the inadequacy and
infrequency of engaging social relationships. Loneliness can
increase the risk of major diseases, such as heart disease,
diabetes, obesity, depression, substance abuse and Alzheimer's
and other forms of dementia.
-Belmont Village Senior Living and Dilip Jeste, MD,
Present "Resilience and Wisdom in Senior Housing Communities,"
a Webinar on the Benefits of Community Living Ahead of New La
Jolla Community Opening.
Belmont Blooms Fashion Show (Video)
***
Testimonial: Kay Allen, Belmont Village Fort Lauderdale
(Video)
***
Finding Friendship at Belmont Village (Video)
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
NANASP Statement
The National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services
Programs commends the committee for convening the hearing on
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family
and Community Support."
ANASP is an association of over 1,000 members across the
country who form a vital lifeline through senior centers, dine-
in and congregate meal sites, and home-delivered-meal services.
These essential providers reach into every corner of America,
from rural small towns to bustling urban hubs. Almost 60% of
our older adult participants live alone, making our programs
one of their few daily social connections.
Older adults are at higher risk for socially isolation due
to factors like mobility limitations, health issues, lack of
transportation, loss of loved ones, and financial constraints.
In 2024, one in three older Americans reported feeling lonely.
Social isolation not only creates health problems -it amplifies
them, increasing the risk of premature death for older adults
managing chronic conditions and increasing avoidable admissions
to a hospital or nursing home. Those experiencing isolation and
loneliness are more vulnerable to falls and depression,
threatening their independence and self-reliance.
An effective answer to this silent epidemic already exists
in a landmark program, the Older Americans Act (OAA). OAA
programs offer vital nutrition and supportive services,
breaking the cycle of isolation while improving health
outcomes. A recent survey found 61% of home-delivered meal
participants noted the daily meals helped reduce feelings of
social isolation and nearly three-quarters of participants
believe the program helps them to continue to live
independently and improve their health. As Mr. MacPherson,
Founder and Chairman of the Foundation for Social Connection
Action Network, stated in his testimony, addressing this
epidemic is not only a moral imperative, but also a critical
public health necessity.
This year, the OAA will celebrate 60 years of success of
delivering services and programs that create connections.
Despite bipartisan support, the OAA wasn't reauthorized in
2024. We encourage the committee to work in a bipartisan
fashion to reauthorize the OAA to ensure these essential
services can reach even more older adults facing social
isolation and loneliness.
Sincerely,
/s/
Bob Blancato
Executive Director
NANASP
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
Oshkosh Community YMCA Statement
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U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
YMCA Statement
Social Connection & Fall Prevention - A Winning Combination at NYS
YMCAs
Studies show that participation in group-based exercise
programs designed for fall prevention can effectively reduce
social isolation among seniors by fostering social connections
and a sense of community.
In New York State, falls are the leading cause of injury
and death in New York State, accounting for $1.7 billion in
annual hospitalization charges. New York State YMCAs are rising
to meet this challenge by expanding capacity in statewide fall
prevention programs.
YMCAs are engaged in a 4-year plan to enroll over 2,500
New Yorkers in fall prevention programs, expanding access to
life-saving resources and promoting social connection.
40 new instructors have been trained in the last six
months, enabling evidence-based falls prevention programs to
expand to new YMCA locations as well as senior centers,
churches, and other community locations, making fall prevention
more accessible than ever.
NYS YMCAs are preparing to launch a statewide, virtual,
small-group based fall prevention program to reach those facing
mobility challenges or lack access to transportation.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] T0186.047
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
"Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and
Community Support"
March 12, 2025
Statements for the Record
YMCA Florida Statistics
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