National Aging Services Organizations Call for Day of Action in Honor of 60th Anniversary of the Older Americans Act on July 14

ADvancing States Executive Director Martha Roherty, National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP) Executive Director Robert B. Blancato, National Council on Aging (NCOA) President and CEO Ramsey Alwin, Meals on Wheels America President and CEO Ellie Hollander and USAging CEO Sandy Markwood issued the following joint statement leading up to the 60th anniversary of the Older Americans Act (OAA) on July 14: For six decades, the Older Americans Act (OAA) has connected older adults to vital services that help people age with health and dignity—in their own homes and communities, where they want to be. In 1965, the OAA was transformational for older adults, and today, it still stands as the only national framework comprehensively addressing the social services needs of older adults in the community. The Act continues to be one of the most successful examples of public-private partnerships in action and leverages $3 for every $1 invested by the federal government. As the U.S. population ages—projected to include more than 97 million Americans over age 60 by 2040—we must scale OAA programs that are trusted, proven, and have withstood the test of time.

Thanks to the OAA, millions of older adults have access to in-home care, transportation, healthy aging activities in senior centers, nutritious meals, help connecting to other services, job training, and more. Older caregivers and caregivers of older adults are also served by the OAA with respite care, training, support and access to other resources. OAA programs and services are delivered through a nationwide network of state and local agencies and service providers that are deeply rooted in their communities, equipping them to meet the unique needs of local older adults and caregivers, particularly those most in need of assistance to age well and remain in their homes and communities.

Community-based services are person-centered and more cost-effective than other forms of health or long-term care, including hospital stays and nursing homes. When older adults can safely and successfully age at home, families and taxpayers alike benefit.

While we celebrate the OAA’s 60th anniversary, we know that continued progress requires continued support. Most critically, federal funding for OAA programs must increase in order to reach all older adults in need. Our organizations urge Congress to protect and increase funding for the OAA, and we urge supporters to contact their representatives during a collective day of action on the 60th Anniversary of the OAA on Monday, July 14.