Statement from Assistant Secretary on Senate Passage of Older Americans Act Reauthorization

We applaud the Senate for passing the Older Americans Act and advancing it one major step toward reauthorization. This critical legislation, which was signed into law 50 years ago this week, provides high-quality, individualized services that improve the health, safety, and well-being of nearly 12 million older adults and one million family caregivers. It is key to enabling older adults to live their lives with dignity and respect in the homes and communities they choose.

Last week, at the White House Conference on Aging, we talked about the transformation of aging in America and the engagement of all sectors of society in the benefits and promise of longevity. Reauthorization of the Older Americans Act is an important step in achieving the goals we set.