Pass the Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s landmark 2023 report on loneliness and isolation found that older adults’ social isolation increases Medicare spending by an estimated $6.7 billion annually due to increased nursing home and hospital costs.[1] Additionally, social isolation was the greatest risk factor for hypertension among older adults, higher even than diabetes. Social isolation is also related to accelerated cognitive decline and a higher risk of dementia, self-harm, and suicide.[2]

The Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2023 would appropriate $250 million to address social isolation and loneliness for older adults. Additionally, the act could support community-based interventions and connect at-risk older adults with social and clinical support.[3] By taking steps to address the epidemic of isolation and loneliness among older adults, this legislation would improve older adults’ mental and physical health and overall well-being.