This week, U.S. Representatives Marilyn Strickland (D-WA) and Bryan Steil (R-WI) reintroduced H.R. 1812, the Care Across Generations Act, a forward-thinking piece of legislation that seeks to strengthen intergenerational connections in long-term care and senior living communities. The bill proposes federal grants to support the establishment of on-site childcare centers within senior living communities or to fund partnerships with nearby childcare providers. The aim is twofold: to enhance the well-being of older adults through meaningful interactions with children while simultaneously addressing childcare challenges faced by senior living employees.
The reintroduction of this legislation, previously introduced as H.R. 6835 in 2023, reflects growing recognition of the benefits of intergenerational programs. Argentum has played an active role in working directly with congressional offices to draft the legislative language, advocating for policies that address the needs of both senior living residents and workers.
The Science Behind Intergenerational Care
The idea of integrating young and older generations in care settings is not new, but it is increasingly being recognized as an evidence-based approach to improving health outcomes for all ages. Research has consistently demonstrated that structured intergenerational programs can:
- Boost Mental and Physical Well-Being: Studies show that older adults who engage with younger generations experience improved cognitive function, increased physical activity, and a greater sense of purpose. The National Institute on Aging has identified social isolation as a major risk factor for cognitive decline, with research indicating that social isolation contributes to a 50% increased risk of dementia and a 59% increased risk of functional decline.
- Combat the Epidemic of Loneliness: The former U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has described loneliness as an epidemic, with adverse health effects comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes per day. Intergenerational activities have been shown to reduce feelings of loneliness and increase social engagement among older adults, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
- Enhance Development for Children: Children who interact regularly with older adults benefit from enriched learning experiences, increased empathy, and improved social-emotional development. Exposure to seniors provides children with a broader worldview and reduces age-related stereotypes.
- Create Cost-Effective Care Models: Integrating childcare services within senior living communities can reduce overall operational costs by maximizing shared resources, staffing efficiencies, and facility usage. Communities that have implemented these models report improved resident satisfaction and stronger workforce retention.
Public Support for Intergenerational Care Models
The push for intergenerational care is also supported by strong public sentiment. According to national polling:
- 92% of Americans believe that intergenerational activities can reduce loneliness for both older and younger individuals.
- 85% of Americans would prefer a care setting that fosters intergenerational connections over one that does not.
These findings underscore a growing preference for senior living communities that incorporate intergenerational elements into their design and programming.
A Solution for the Senior Living Workforce
Beyond the benefits for residents and children, the Care Across Generations Act also presents a practical solution to a persistent workforce challenge in senior living—childcare. A significant percentage of senior living employees are working parents who struggle with access to affordable, convenient childcare. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted and exacerbated these challenges, with many workers forced to reduce hours or leave the workforce altogether due to childcare constraints.
By providing on-site childcare services or funding partnerships with local childcare centers, the proposed legislation would help attract and retain workers in an industry that continues to face staffing shortages. Access to affordable, high-quality childcare could serve as an important incentive for recruitment and retention, particularly for caregivers, nurses, and other frontline workers who are critical to maintaining high standards of care in senior living communities.
The Role of Public Policy and the Path Forward
The introduction of the Care Across Generations Act comes at a pivotal time as senior living leaders, advocates, and policymakers gather in Washington, D.C., for Argentum’s Public Policy Institute (PPI), March 12-13. This annual event brings together industry executives, public policy experts, and legislators to discuss the most pressing policy issues facing senior living and to advocate for solutions that strengthen the industry.
This year’s PPI will feature key discussions on workforce development, affordability, and regulations affecting senior living, with a special emphasis on policies like the Care Across Generations Act that directly impact residents, employees, and communities. The event provides an opportunity to engage in high-level discussions with lawmakers, share real-world experiences, and help shape the future of senior living policy.
There is still time to register for the Public Policy Institute and join this critical conversation. Senior living professionals who want to make their voices heard and support policies like H.R. 1812 are encouraged to sign up now and participate in lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill.
Argentum’s Commitment to Advancing Intergenerational Care
Argentum commends Representatives Strickland and Steil for their leadership in championing the Care Across Generations Act and recognizes the importance of building bipartisan support for this initiative. As the senior living industry continues to innovate and evolve, intergenerational programming offers a powerful way to enhance the quality of life for residents, support the workforce, and meet the growing demand for more holistic, person-centered models of care.
During Argentum’s Public Policy Institute, advocacy efforts will focus on increasing awareness and support for this legislation, ensuring that policymakers recognize the far-reaching impact of intergenerational engagement.
The Care Across Generations Act represents an important step toward redefining senior living as not just a place for older adults, but a thriving, interconnected community for all generations. As support for intergenerational programming continues to grow, the senior living industry has a unique opportunity to lead the way in creating environments that foster connection, purpose, and well-being—across all ages.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation at this year’s Public Policy Institute. Visit Argentum’s website to register today.
