Managing Partner and Founding Principal Andrew MacPherson, speaking on behalf of the Foundation for Social Connection Action Network (F4SCAN), testified before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging and delivered a powerful message: loneliness among older adults is a public health crisis we can no longer ignore.
In his testimony, Andrew emphasized the devastating health and economic impacts of social isolation and called for bold policy solutions, including:
✅ Passing the SENIOR Act to integrate loneliness into the Older Americans Act
✅ Increasing funding for senior nutrition programs and community-based resources
✅ Expanding intergenerational initiatives that foster meaningful connections
✅ Improving broadband access to bridge the digital divide for older adults
✅ Strengthening Medicare coverage to include routine screenings and support services
Andrew also announced the F4SCAN’s Federal Policy Priorities for Social Connection, a framework of 130 strategic solutions to combat loneliness and foster social well-being.
We are proud to support efforts that drive real change in social connection policy. Together, we can build a future where connection—not loneliness—defines the aging experience.
Read our summary of the hearing
Read more F4SCAN policy recommendations on the F4SCAN website.