# Understanding the Addressing SILO Act of 2023

Social isolation and loneliness are serious problems affecting millions of older adults and people with disabilities in America. This bill creates a new federal program to help fight these issues by giving money and training to local organizations that work with seniors and disabled individuals. The government will provide $62.5 million per year for four years (2024-2027) to support area agencies on aging and community organizations in identifying people who are isolated, creating programs to help them connect with others, and measuring whether these efforts actually work.

The bill focuses on practical, on-the-ground solutions. Organizations receiving grants can use the money to reach out to isolated individuals using screening tools or other methods, develop community programs that bring people together and reduce loneliness, connect at-risk people with social and health services they need, and track whether their programs are making a real difference. The bill recognizes that social isolation isn't just about being physically alone—it's also about feeling lonely and disconnected, even when around others. By funding these local efforts, the bill aims to give communities the resources to address what has become a recognized public health concern.

The program requires coordination with existing aging services and mandates that the federal government report back to Congress every three years on how well these programs are working. This means there will be accountability and ongoing evaluation to ensure the money is actually helping vulnerable older adults and people with disabilities feel more connected and less isolated. For seniors and disabled individuals struggling with loneliness, this bill could mean new local programs, volunteer opportunities, social activities, or connections to support services in their communities.

Addressing SILO Act of 2023

Sánchez, Linda T.

Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults Act of 2023 or the Addressing SILO Act of 2023 This bill provides funding through FY2027 for grants to prevent and address social isolation or loneliness among older adults and individuals with disabilities through education, outreach, and interventions. The Department of Health and Human Services must award these grants to area agencies on aging and community-based organizations.