Senate Passes Ranking Member Scott, Chairman Casey’s Resolution to Establish “Older Americans Mental Health Awareness Day”

WASHINGTON – This week, the Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Chairman Bob Casey’s (D-Pa.) resolution designating May 16 as “Older Americans Mental Health Awareness Day” for the first time.

“Seniors are at a high risk for suicide, a reality which is rarely discussed,” said Ranking Member Scott. “Older Americans should feel encouraged to seek care without the weight of stigma. Loneliness often contributes to declining mental health in seniors, and I hope this resolution will have a positive impact to ensure Americans rally around this valuable community.”

Chairman Casey said, “So many older adults face their mental health challenges alone because of unrelenting stigma. The pandemic only worsened this crisis, as older adults were forced to isolate in their homes, away from their family and friends. We must make sure seniors have meaningful access to all their health care needs. I am proud to introduce this resolution with Senator Scott and I will continue to prioritize mental health care for seniors so that we can address their needs without the barriers of stigma.”

Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), members of the Committee on Aging, cosponsored the resolution.

Click here for the resolution text.

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