About NCOA
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is a national nonprofit working to create the conditions for all to age well. For more than 75 years, we've helped improve the lives of older adults through trusted resources, community partnerships, and advocacy. Now, we're building on that legacy to drive lasting, system-wide change and make our vision of 100 million happier, healthier birthdays by 2040 a reality.
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 today and into the future |
Goal | 100 million happier, healthier birthdays by 2040 |
Our History
Since 1950, NCOA has been a driving force behind some of the most significant advances in aging in America.
We became the first national voice for older adults. We helped end mandatory retirement. We fought for Medicare, Medicaid, the Older Americans Act, and the Affordable Care Act. We empowered local organizations serving older adults in every community. And we built trusted tools and resources that help millions navigate aging with confidence.
This legacy drives our next chapter. As the country ages, we're working to change the systems, strengthen the communities, and advance the policies that make it possible for everyone to age well.
How We Create the Conditions for All to Age Well
Our Impact
Together, we reached our goal of improving the health and economic security of 40 million older adults—an important milestone in our 75-year history. Now, we're building on that progress to go further: changing the conditions that shape how we age and working toward 100 million happier, healthier birthdays by 2040. Learn how we measure impact and drive change.
Photo by Karen Lozinski© all rights reserved for NCOA use only
How NCOA Makes an Impact
Creating the conditions for all to age well means addressing the factors that shape our health, financial security, relationships, and safety. Explore how we're advancing this work and holding ourselves accountable.
The Legacy Behind Our Mission
For more than 75 years, NCOA has worked to improve the lives of older adults and strengthen the systems that support them. That legacy is the foundation for our next chapter: Creating the conditions for all to age well and achieving 100 million happier, healthier birthdays by 2040.
Advocate for Everyone to Age Well
Lasting change requires strong policies and programs that support people as they age. Add your voice to help shape the national conversation, protect and strengthen the programs we all depend on, and advance policies that create better opportunities for everyone to age well.
Our Partners Help Make Our Work Possible
Creating healthier, more secure futures takes collaboration. NCOA works with corporate partners and foundations to expand our reach, accelerate impact, and help more people age well in every community.
Ready to make a greater impact together?
The Story Behind a Happier, Healthier Birthday
Every happier, healthier birthday starts with a story. Tell us about a moment, a person, or an experience that has shaped how you think about aging. Your story may be featured on NCOA.org or in our newsletters and social channels.
