Proposed legislation would help foster community among aging and disabled populations – WBNG

NEW YORK (WBNG) — Legislation has been introduced to help combat loneliness among senior and disabled populations through community grant funding.
The Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults (SILO) Act would provide $62.5 million in annual funding to support community-based organizations dedicated to fostering social connections among vulnerable groups.
According to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s office, seniors and disabled people struggle with maintaining strong social connections.
For seniors and people with disabilities, the health risks associated with loneliness are a matter of life and death: socially isolated seniors face a 45% greater risk of early mortality, a 31% greater risk of dementia, and a 14% higher risk of Alzheimer’s.
“Older adults have spent their entire lives contributing to our communities, and they deserve resources to support their health and well-being,” said Gillibrand. “The Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults (SILO) Act will enable direct outreach and community support to seniors in need of connection. I am proud to introduce this important legislation, and I pledge to continue fighting to expand access to quality, affordable, and timely care for our seniors.”
The SILO Act provides $62.5 million in annual funding to support area agencies on aging (AAA) and community-based organizations in:
Learn more about the SILO Act here.
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