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About NCOA

Learn about the work we do, the people we serve, and why we believe every person deserves to age well.
Smiling older woman and other Mardi Gras parade revelers

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) delivers the resources, tools, best practices, and advocacy our nation needs to ensure that every person can age with health and economic well-being.

Vision

A just and caring society in which each of us, as we age, lives with dignity, purpose, and security

Mission

Create the conditions for all to age well now and into the future

Our History

Since 1950, NCOA has made improving the lives of older adults our passion and mission.

NCOA was the first national voice for older adults. We helped end mandatory retirement. We advocated to secure Medicare, Medicaid, the Older Americans Act, and the Affordable Care Act. Local organizations turned to us for support as they served older adults every day. And we built digital tools that empower aging Americans with knowledge.

How We Help Older Adults

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Resources
Trusted, unbiased information that enables older adults and their caregivers to take small steps that can have a big impact on their health and financial security
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Tools
Personalized, online support for individuals to find benefits, prevent falls, and plan for a healthy and secure life
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Best Practices
Technical assistance and support for professionals in community-based organizations who serve older adults every day
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Reviews
Customized recommendations for products and services that can help older adults age well—all tested and rigorously researched
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Advocacy
A national platform and voice to fight against ageism—and to strengthen the federal programs we all depend on as we age

Our Impact

We met our goal to improve the health and economic security of 40 million older adults. Learn how we count impact.

Photo by Karen Lozinski© all rights reserved for NCOA use only

How NCOA Makes an Impact

We are creating the conditions for all to age well today and into the future. Find out how we're holding ourselves accountable.

40 Million Lives Improved

Built to Help Older Adults Thrive

It started with a simple but powerful idea: Older adults should have the resources to live at home and contribute to their communities as long as possible. For more than 75 years, NCOA has turned that idea into reality for millions of Americans.

Our Partners Help Make Our Work Possible

NCOA is your partner to improve the lives of older adults. We work with corporate partners and foundations to educate nationally and activate locally, so we all can live with dignity and independence.

Want to build awareness for an issue important to your organization?

A diverse group of people, including both older and younger adults, pose together outdoors at a community event or race. Many are wearing numbered race bibs and colorful athletic clothing. A man in the center, wearing black, raises his arm in celebration as others around him smile and cheer. The group exudes energy and enthusiasm, suggesting a positive and inclusive community gathering.

What does aging mean to you?

Your Story Matters

Aging is something we all do—and every journey is unique. Whether you’re discovering new passions, navigating challenges, or finding joy in everyday moments, your story can inspire others and help reshape the way people think about getting older. We’d love to hear from you.

Share Your Story with NCOA

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