On behalf of older adults and those of us hoping to grow old, I am extremely grateful that the reauthorization of the Older Americans Act (OAA) has been successfully passed by both the House and Senate. Older adults consistently express their personal desire to age in their homes and communities, surrounded by the people, places and activities that give their lives meaning. For more than 50 years, the OAA has provided support to make that dream a reality; from home delivered meals and exercise classes to legal services and case management. In every setting and through every advancing year, OAA services support health, dignity and independence.
I applaud the dedicated work of the national aging services network of states, tribes, area agencies on aging, long term care ombudsman, local services providers and volunteers who make successful aging possible. Their work with and on behalf of older adults and family caregivers makes a difference in millions of people’s lives each and every day.
Our country is growing old. By 2020, the older adult population will number more than 77 million.
One in every five people will be over the age of 60. And more than 34 million adult caregivers will provide uncompensated care to older adults. These numbers will continue to grow. The programs authorized by the Older Americans Act have never been more important to individuals, to families and to communities. The reauthorization of the Older Americans Act signals our commitment to the health and well-being of those of us aged and aging in America. The reauthorization is also a testament to the value of old age itself.
Kathy Greenlee
Assistant Secretary for Aging
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Statement from Assistant Secretary for Aging Kathy Greenlee welcoming passage of the Older Americans Act reauthorization
It's good that it passed. I doubt it does much. But, it does draw attention to the elderly and it is now on the federal record.
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