Older Americans Act (OAA)

The Aging and Disability Business Institute in partnership with AgeSpan released their newest case study, an exploration of evidence based programs in New England to promote health and wellbeing. The report examines the multistate network of Area Agencies on Aging brought about a collaborative approach to deliver new evidence-based programs and maintaining community connection.

The National Conference of State Legislatures recently released an article exploring different steps that states are taking to address the rapidly aging population and how to keep that population in their homes longer. The article looks at approaches from across the country exploring food security, financial support, transportation, housing, the direct care workforce, social isolation prevention, and more.

There are several changes that may affect SNAP household’s benefit amounts over the coming months. The temporary boost to SNAP benefits put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, known as emergency allotments, will end nationwide after the February 2023 issuance. In addition, households that receive SNAP and Social Security benefits will see a decrease in their SNAP benefits because of the significant cost of living increase to Social Security benefits that took effect on Jan. 1, 2023.

ACL released its first comprehensive report on the accomplishments of Older Americans Act (OAA) Title III, VI, and VII programs. Enacted in 1965, the OAA created the foundation for a comprehensive system of services and supports that enables millions of older adults in this country to continue to live independently as they age. Today, programs funded by the OAA provide essential services to older adults, targeting those with the greatest economic or social need, particularly low-income and minority persons, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older persons living in rural areas. The programs play a vital role in helping to maintain the health and well-being of millions of older adults and their caregivers.

The Acting Assistant Secretary for Aging and Administrator of ACL is seeking information on recommended changes, additions, or deletions to Code of Federal Regulation's section on Grants to State and Community Programs on Aging; Grants to Indian Tribes for Support and Nutrition Services; Grants for Supportive and Nutritional Services to Older Hawaiian Natives; and Allotments for Vulnerable Elder Rights Protection Activities, including Subpart A—State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. Information must be submitted electronically on June 6, 2022 by 11:59 p.m. ET. All are encouraged to submit electronic comments to: Administration on Aging, OAAregulations@acl.hhs.gov. Include “OAA Regulations” in the subject line of the message.

ACL recently published a new report sharing new information and insights on Older Americans Act (OAA) services, reveals major OAA milestones, and key information on the impact and necessity of services for older adults. This report includes highlights from OAA Title III programs in 2018.

The wave of federal funding from programs like the American Rescue Plan and Consolidated Appropriations acts can be overwhelming to comprehend. Many state leaders are wondering how best to invest these funds while keeping future needs in mind. This panel of state-level experts will provide considerations for funding topics including: • Understanding current funding initiatives • Considering the range of options states have to use funds • Implementing innovations like private-pay programs

ADvancing States is incredibly pleased to publish this new primer on the Older Americans Act (OAA) – the seminal piece of legislation that established the “aging services network”. The report discusses the historical development, functions, and governance of the Act, its service programs, populations served, and funding. We hope that you find the report useful and share with your partners across the aging and disability networks.

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) held a kick-off webinar for the second annual "Celebrate Our Senior Nutrition Program" in early February 2021. ACL shared details around the March celebration and the focus on the Older Americans Act's intent of nutrition, socialization, and health and well-being.

This report explores a range of options for connecting American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian (AI/AN/NH) communities to culturally appropriate health and wellness information. NCOA explores the recommended action steps to move toward more inclusive health education, what we can learn from existing evidence-based programs, and how this intersects with health disparities and limited access to care among indigenous communities.