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The Older Americans Act turns 60

Advocates call for more support for America’s seniors

Updated:

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By:
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Mark Huffman
Reporter

Mark Huffman has covered consumer issues since 2004, with a special focus on protecting and empowering older adults. A former news correspondent for the Associated Press Radio Network, Westwood One, and ConsumerAffairs, Mark brings decades of journalistic experience to RetirementLiving.com. He is passionate about giving consumers a voice and helping them make informed decisions. Mark has also created educational content, including Senior Scam Alert, a video resource designed to help seniors recognize and avoid fraud. He holds a B.A. from the University of Kentucky and lives with his family in Richmond, Virginia.

Photo by Martiniuc Daniel on Unsplash

Key Insights

  • Five leading organizations are marking the 60th anniversary of the Older Americans Act (OAA) with a unified call to action for increased federal support.
  • The OAA has been essential since 1965 in funding critical services that help older adults age with dignity and independence.
  • Supporters are urged to contact Congress today to advocate for stronger funding amid growing demands and looming benefit cuts.

A coalition of five national aging and nutrition organizations is marking a significant milestone this week: the 60th anniversary of the Older Americans Act (OAA). 

Advancing States, the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP), the National Council on Aging (NCOA), Meals on Wheels America, and USAging have joined forces to celebrate the landmark legislation that has transformed aging in America — and to call on Congress for urgent action to secure its future.

Since its passage in 1965, the OAA has been the cornerstone of federal aging policy, establishing a national infrastructure to provide vital services that enable older adults to live independently in their communities. The Act supports a range of critical services, including:

  • In-home care and personal assistance
  • Access to transportation
  • Nutritious meals through programs like Meals on Wheels
  • Social and wellness activities at senior centers
  • Job training and caregiver support
  • Connections to healthcare and social services

Nationwide aging network

These programs are administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and are delivered by a nationwide aging network that spans all states and territories.

To commemorate the anniversary, the five organizations spearheaded a national day of action. The groups are urging supporters, stakeholders, and everyday citizens to contact their members of Congress and advocate for increased funding for OAA programs.

“As we celebrate this milestone and all we’ve accomplished with the support of the OAA over the course of 60 years, it’s important we recognize that continued progress requires continued support,” the organizations said in a joint statement.