S5907

The New York State Senate passed legislation expanding data collection on loneliness and social isolation within naturally occurring retirement communities, or NORCs. Senate Print 5907, sponsored by Sen. Cleare, amends the Elder Law to require the State Office for the Aging to track metrics on loneliness and isolation as part of its existing NORC data collection efforts. The bill passed on a 61-0 roll call vote. Sen. Cleare argued that loneliness represents a public health epidemic among seniors, with documented links to lower life expectancy, dementia, depression, anxiety, and suicide. She said the expanded data collection will help determine whether current NORC models adequately address the needs of isolated older New Yorkers or whether additional funding and new approaches are required. The legislation comes as the state budget includes increased funding for NORC programs in recognition of their role in supporting seniors.