Healthcare (Public Health · Seniors)

This bill creates the "Senior Social Isolation Prevention and Mental Health Access Act" to address loneliness and mental health issues among New Jersey residents aged 65 and older. It allocates $1.8 million to fund county organizations for friendly visitor and digital literacy programs, supports senior centers in launching new mental health screening services, and establishes a three-year pilot program allowing doctors to refer eligible patients to community activities similar to how they prescribe medication. The legislation requires all grant recipients to report on participant numbers and program costs, while the pilot program specifically aims to connect seniors with non-medical resources without charging them extra fees.