Support Federal Programs for Older Adults

The Older Americans Act (OAA), originally enacted in 1965, is a landmark piece of legislation in the United States designed to support a comprehensive array of services for older adults. The act funds numerous programs aimed at promoting health, independence, and well-being among older Americans.

The OAA was last reauthorized in 2020. The current reauthorization extends the authorization through 2024.

Status of Act

Senate

The Senate passed the reauthorization bill on December 10, 2024, by unanimous consent.

House of Representatives

The bill now needs to be taken up and passed by the House of Representatives.  Legislative gridlock and competing priorities have slowed this process.  Technically the program funding continues through the current CR but some funding has already been cut and now long-term reauthorization remains uncertain.  Advocacy is needed.

• Increased Funding:

The reauthorization would authorize increased funding for OAA programs. The bill would authorize $15.2 billion over the 2025-2029 period.

Funding and Administration:

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) administers the OAA. Funding is allocated to state departments on aging, which then distribute funds to County Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). In our area these include:

• Chester County Dept. OF Aging Services (CCDAS)
• Delaware County Office of services for the Aging (COSA)
• Montogomery County Office of Aging Services ( MCOAS)

 

• The ACL was eliminated on April 1 by HHS. There has been no move to assign the programs in ACL to other departments of HHS currently. 

 

 

• Purpose of OAA:

The OAA funds critical programs and services that help older adults live independently in their communities, including home and community-based services (HCBS), nutrition services, in-home supportive services, caregiver support, and community service employment.

Key Programs Funded by the Older Americans Act:

If any of these programs are cut, this will have significant negative effects for all older adults but especially those more vulnerable.   

Title III – Congregate and Home-Delivered Nutrition Services

Nutrition Services: Provides meals to older adults, either at senior centers (congregate meals) or delivered to their homes (home-delivered meals), to support nutrition and social engagement.

Title III – Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Services

Programs that promote chronic disease management, falls prevention, and health education tailored for older adults.

Title III – Supportive Services

Case Management: Assists older adults in accessing services and maintaining independence.

Transportation: Provides transportation assistance to help seniors access healthcare, nutrition sites, and other services.

Legal Assistance: Offers legal services related to elder rights, housing, and benefits.

In-Home Services: Includes homemaker, chore, and personal care services.

Title IV – Research, Training, and Discretionary Projects

Supports research on aging issues, workforce training for aging services, and innovative pilot programs.

Title V – National Family Caregiver Support Program

Provides support for family caregivers through respite, counseling, training, and information.

Title VI – Native American Caregiver Support and Elder Rights

Funds programs specifically tailored for Native American elders, including elder rights protection and caregiver support.

Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)

Integrate access to long-term services and supports, simplifying navigation for older adults and their families.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

Advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure quality care and protect rights.

Additional Focus Areas:

Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Programs**

Support for dementia care, caregiver education, and early detection initiatives.

Prevention of Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation**

Programs aimed at protecting vulnerable elders.

 

The Administration for Community Living (ACL), an agency supporting older adults and people with disabilities, is being dismantled and its programs are being absorbed into other parts of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This move is part of a larger HHS restructuring that includes significant workforce reductions.

Key Details:

• Elimination of ACL:

The ACL, which was established in 2012, was eliminated on April 1.

• Absorption of Programs:

Critical ACL programs, including those supporting older adults and people with disabilities, will be integrated into other HHS agencies like the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Workforce Reduction:

HHS has begun to reduce its workforce by 10,000 employees as part of the reorganization, according to reports.

• Concerns about Service Continuity:

There are concerns about the future of services for older adults and people with disabilities, as the details of how ACL programs will continue under the new structure have not been fully specified, reports indicate.

• HHS Restructuring Goal:

The HHS restructuring is aimed at improving efficiency and streamlining operations.  No moves have been made to address the elimination of the ACL.

• Impact on Individuals and Families:

The changes may negatively impact individuals with disabilities, older adults, and their families who rely on ACL programs for access to essential services.

Find Your Connection 

Surrey has the following opportunities available:

• Drive community members to medical appointments, the grocery store, and a variety of other errands
• Shop for homebound seniors
• Lead classes