Older Americans Act Reauthorization
All of us have a stake in ensuring the Older Americans Act (OAA) continues to support programs and services that promote the health and independence of Americans age 60 and older. Reauthorization of the statute provides an opportunity to continue the bipartisan commitment to the Aging Services Network and the OAA programs that empower older adults to age well in their own homes and communities.
The Older Americans Act reauthorization process
NCOA's priorities for OAA reauthorization include:
- Healthy aging: Everyone deserves access to quality health care services that meet their needs. Many of these services can reduce or delay expensive hospital or nursing home admissions. Falls prevention, chronic disease self-management education (CDSME), and evidence-based healthy aging programs should be maintained.
- Economic security: Rising poverty rates among older adults and point to the need for more support. Many older adults work beyond their anticipated retirement or must return to work. Yet age discrimination continues to create barriers to employment and training assistance. The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), the only workforce development program for older workers, should be maintained.
- Senior centers: Senior centers play a crucial role in supporting communities and linking people with opportunities to age well and be socially connected. Resources for senior center operations and modernization should be strengthened.
NCOA President and CEO Ramsey Alwin testified before the U.S. Senate Committee Health, Education, Labor & Pensions about the importance of the Older Americans Act in ensuring everyone has the opportunity to age well. She said the law "is integral to achieving NCOA’s vision of a just and caring society in which each of us, as we age, lives with dignity, purpose, and security."
Learn more about the Older Americans Act reauthorization
- Read a letter from NCOA and leading aging organizations on the importance of a timely OAA reauthorization.
- Senate Advances Bill Endorsed by NCOA
- Senate Committee Advances Bill Endorsed by NCOA
- 2024 Year End Funding Package Temporarily Extends Aging Services
Protect OAA Funding
Help protect the federal funding needed to help support older adults, families, and communities. Fight for the Older Americans Act today.
The Latest OAA News and Updates
Celebrating 59 Years of the Older Americans Act
Now in its 59th year, the Older Americans Act (OAA) ensures a network of national, state, tribal, local, and community-based organizations can plan for and implement important programming to ensure all older Americans, especially the most vulnerable, can age well with health, dignity, and independence. Learn more about its history and what you can do to support its reauthorization this year.
