Older Americans Act

In 1965, the Older Americans Act was created in response to the growing number of older adults and their diverse needs.  The Older Americans Act has been amended regularly to develop a range of programs that offer services and opportunities for older Americans.  The Older Americans Act established the Administration on Aging as an Agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  In 2012, the Administration on Community Living brought together the Administration on Aging (AOA), the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD) and the HHS Office on Disability.

The Older Americans Act establishes a framework for services and partial funding to deliver services.

All individuals 60 years of age or older are eligible for services under the Older Americans Act.  Priority attention is given to those in greatest need.