Older Americans Act: Advocate for Seniors Today

Have you heard of the Older Americans Act (OAA)?

The OAA is a federal law that helps older adults across the United States stay healthy, independent, and supported in their communities.

Why It Matters

The OAA funds critical “Aging Network” services that allow seniors to remain safely in their homes, including: 

• Nutrition: “Meals on Wheels” and community meals.
• Caregiver Support: Training and respite for family caregivers
• Medical Transportation: Rides to medical appointments and essential errands
• Legal & Rights: Elder abuse prevention and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program. 

What’s Happening Now?

The OAA has been reauthorized by Congress every four years since 1965 until 2025 when it was due for renewal.

Right now, as lawmakers work through the next round of decisions, it’s a meaningful moment for community members to stay informed about how OAA funding affects the services so many vulnerable seniors and adults with disabilities rely on.

Now is the time to share your thoughts with your elected officials, and let them know how important OAA-funded programs are in your life or community. Your voice helps highlight the value of these services and the role they play in supporting independence for older adults.

What can you do?

Your voice truly matters. When community members speak up and share what’s important to them, we show lawmakers what communities care about the most.

STEP 1: 

Call your US Representative

Find your representatives HERE 

You can also reach them through the U.S. Capitol Switchboard 24/7 at: 1-202-224-3121.

Email US Representative Rick Larsen HERE 

TELL YOUR REPRESENTATIVE:

Please protect funding for Older Americans Act (OAA) and critical aging programs in the final spending bill for FY 2026. 

STEP 2: 

Call Senator Patty Murray: 1-202-224-2621 
or email her HERE. 

Call Senator Maria Cantwell: 1-202-224-3441 
or email her HERE. 

THANK YOUR SENATORS AND ASK THEM TO:

Thank you for your unwavering support of the Older Americans Act and other safety net services. Please protect funding for Older Americans Act (OAA) and other critical aging programs in the final spending bill for FY 2026. 

STEP 3:

Share this message with other advocates in your community!