Older Americans Act Reauthorization Considered

Advocates ask Congress to reauthorize and expand the Act in 2019.

The growing number of older adults across the United States rely on critical programs and services funded by the Older Americans Act (OAA) to help them live safely in their homes and communities as they age.

Vital OAA dollars provide a wide range of services that prevent unnecessary nursing home placement, promote healthy aging, and help people age with independence and dignity where they want to be – in their homes and communities. Many do not realize that the OAA funds their supportive services, such as:

• In-home services that assist them to bathe, get dressed or maintain a clean and safe home;
• Transportation programs that keep older adults engaged in the community;
• Home-delivered meals or dining at community centers that support the nutritional and social needs of older adults;
• Evidence-based community programs that help people manage their chronic conditions and prevent falls; and
• Family caregiver support.

The OAA is due to be reauthorized by Congress later this year, and negotiations are already underway in both the House and Senate to get this Act passed. Thanks in part to a longstanding history of bipartisan support, this upcoming reauthorization presents an opportunity for our nation to recognize the needs of older adults and their caregivers.

Increasing our investment in cost-effective OAA programs and services is a critical step in responding to the needs of our aging America.  The Area Agency on Aging, PSA 2 has joined the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging in calling on Congress to support and expand the Act. Will you join us and speak out for OAA reauthorization and expansion?

Click here to read a one-page OAA Fact Sheet