Older Americans Act Reauthorized

This week President Obama signed the Older Americans Act (OAA) Reauthorization Act of 2016, ending a six-year reauthorization process.

Doug McGarry, Executive Director of the Area Agency on Aging, PSA 2, commended the bipartisan effort that will provide three years of stability for OAA programs, and added, “We must continue to advocate for adequate funding of the many OAA programs and services that support the independence of older adults and provide education and assistance for their caregivers.”

The ongoing mission of OAA is to provide a means for older adults to age with dignity, independence and health in their homes and communities through delivery of social and nutrition services.

Title III is a portion of OAA that structures grant monies for funding the long-term care ombudsman; legal assistance; nutritional services, including congregate meal settings; caregiver support, including respite care services; and evidence-based programs for preventative health services. In our region these evidence-based programs include Healthy U and A Matter of Balance – workshops offered at a variety of sites throughout our nine-county region.  Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a third evidence-based program that will soon begin in our region with support from OAA funding.