Fostering Social Connection for Older Adults and Caregivers in Communities: Planning Grant

Grant Summary

The goal of this planning grant to USAging is to improve the health of older adults and their caregivers through replication of evidence-based social connection programs in communities. Socially isolated older adults face an increased risk of early mortality, comparable to that of smoking and obesity. Promoting social connection is a critical part of age-friendly care that focuses on “What Matters” to older adults and their caregivers. Funding will support a seed grant pilot program, technical assistance to grantees, and capacity building for the Aging Network and community organizations. The outcomes will include results from eight community seed grants and a final report identifying a plan for broader replication of effective programs in alignment with the age-friendly ecosystem.

Related Grant Resources

• USAging's Aging and Disability Business Institute
• USAging's Seed Grant Opportunity: Strengthening Social Connection in Communities
• USAging's Strengthening Social Connection in Communities
• The John A. Hartford Foundation Business Innovation Award Winners