What is the Older Americans Act?
The Older Americans Act (OAA) has been expired since 2011. It provides a critical lifeline for millions of seniors. This Act helps millions of older Americans remain healthy, economically secure and independent in their homes and communities. Services include delivery of hot meals, health programs, support for family caregivers, help with benefits, job training and employment, senior centers, transportation to doctor appointments and protection against abuse.
Why should I write to my member of Congress?
Your voice will help ensure that your elected officials understand that Lutherans are dedicated to the wellbeing of older Americans and will encourage Congress to address the needs of a growing older adult population.
Write or call Congress with the following message:
Please reauthorize and invest in the Older Americans Act (OAA)!
As a Lutheran committed to improving the lives of older Americans, I’m writing to urge you to reauthorize and invest in the OAA so that it can continue to
help millions of older Americans remain healthy, economically secure and independent.
For nearly 50 years, the Older Americans Act (OAA) has been providing critical services to millions of seniors — from making sure low-income Americans have healthy meals to helping caregivers get the support they need. The Act supports programs that families rely on every day.
That’s why, as your constituent, I hope you will act quickly to pass this critical legislation.
More talking points for communicating with Congress:
- Funding for OAA programs has not kept pace with the increasing numbers, need and diversity of the senior population, and it is still threatened by automatic cuts imposed by recent budget agreements.
- Since 1965, the OAA has provided services and supports that improve seniors’ lives. These include meals, health programs, support for family caregivers, help with benefits, job training and employment, senior centers, transportation and protection against abuse.
- Today, over 23 million older adults are economically insecure – living just one health problem, one missed payment or one lost job away from financial crisis.
- 85% of seniors receiving OAA assistance report it helps to keep them in their homes and communities.
- Nearly 9 million seniors are food insecure.
See OAA infographic from AARP.
