Older Americans Act
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The Older Americans Act (OAA), signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, is the primary federal legislation in the United States designed to support the well-being of older adults. It was enacted as part of the Great Society reforms to address the lack of community-based social services for seniors.
Key Provisions and Programs:
- Age Eligibility: Services are available to individuals aged 60 and older, with some programs extending to those aged 55 and older.
- National Aging Network: The OAA established a nationwide infrastructure including 56 State and Territorial Units on Aging, over 600 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), and more than 20,000 community service providers.
- Core Services: The Act funds a wide range of programs, including:
- Nutrition Services: Congregate and home-delivered meals, with around 40% of funding allocated to meals.
- Supportive Services: Transportation, in-home care, chore services, personal care, and adult day care.
- Caregiver Support: The National Family Caregiver Support Program provides respite, counseling, and training.
- Elder Rights & Protection: Programs to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.
- Health and Wellness: Disease prevention, health promotion, and benefits counseling.
- Community Service Employment: The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) offers part-time opportunities for low-income individuals aged 55+.
- Native American and Tribal Programs: Title VI provides services to older Native Americans and Alaska Natives.
- Funding: The OAA was reauthorized through FY2024 under the Supporting Older Americans Act of 2020. Total funding for FY2024 was $2.372 billion, though it has not kept pace with inflation or the growing 60+ population.
The OAA remains the cornerstone of federal aging policy, promoting independence, dignity, and community living for older adults and their caregivers.
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Thursday, February 12, 2026 10:49AM