#USA #Washington #Aging Services #Older Americans Act #OAA Funding

Celebrating 60 Years of the Older Americans Act

On July 14, 2025, key organizations within the aging services sector united to honor a significant milestone—the 60th anniversary of the Older Americans Act (OAA). This landmark legislation, originally passed in 1965, has played an essential role in connecting millions of older adults to vital services that promote their health and dignity, allowing them to remain in their homes and communities as they age.

The celebration was led by ADvancing States, the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP), the National Council on Aging (NCOA), Meals on Wheels America, and USAging. Together, they are raising a unified voice to urge Congress to not only protect existing funding but also to increase financial support for the essential programs delivered under the OAA.

The Older Americans Act laid the groundwork for a comprehensive aging network that focuses on various services critical for seniors, including in-home care, transportation, and nutritious meal delivery. Today, these programs, many funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), are essential lifelines to support older adults across America. They enable access to healthy aging activities located in senior centers and facilitate connections to other necessary services such as caregiver support and job training.

In their joint statement, the leaders of these organizations emphasized that while celebrating past achievements, it is crucial to acknowledge that further progress requires progressive financial backing. They are particularly concerned about the upcoming changes to Medicaid and SNAP benefits resulting from recent legislative actions, particularly H.R.1. Such modifications are expected to intensify challenges faced by vulnerable senior citizens, thereby increasing reliance on OAA-funded programs that are already grappling with increasing demand and resource limitations.

To encourage participation in this crucial initiative, they have called on supporters to engage with their congressional representatives—advocating for the expansion of OAA funding. This coordinated day of action aims to guarantee that OAA programs continue to provide necessary support for the aging population of America for the next 60 years and beyond, ensuring that no senior is left behind.

The emphasis on increased funding reflects a collective acknowledgment that services supporting the health and well-being of older adults should not be partisan issues. The collaboration underscores the shared commitment among these organizations to work closely with the Administration and Congress, advancing policies tailored to effectively meet the needs of seniors all across the country.

About the Organizations Involved:
1. ADvancing States: Established in 1964, this organization represents state and territorial agencies on aging and disabilities across the United States. It advocates for policies that enhance services for long-term care and supports for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
2. NANASP: Founded in 1977, NANASP is a leading advocate for nutrition programs that serve older adults, currently supporting over 4 million seniors nationwide.
3. NCOA: Established in 1950, NCOA is dedicated to promoting the right to healthy aging through resources and advocacy for older adults.
4. Meals on Wheels America: This organization supports a network of local programs addressing senior hunger and loneliness, delivering nutritious meals and socialization to seniors across the nation.
5. USAging: Representing Area Agencies on Aging, USAging advocates for optimal health, independence, and dignity for seniors and persons with disabilities.

In reflecting on the OAA's impact over six decades, volunteers, advocates, and leaders across these organizations are passionate about ensuring its future serves every senior in need effectively. They emphasize that sustaining and expanding the OAA's benefits is critical in fostering an inclusive, empowered community for older Americans.

Conclusion: As we mark this significant milestone, it’s evident that a unified effort is necessary to ensure that the Older Americans Act continues to adapt, grow, and thrive, meeting the complex demands of an aging population in the years to come.