Chances are if you, or anyone in your family, is 65 or older your life has been impacted by an Older Americans Act program.  From Meals on Wheels to senior centers, prevention of physical and financial abuse, computer training to legal assistance, OAA programs touch the lives of millions of seniors and their families.  This myriad of programs provides home and community-based services making it possible for older adults to remain independent, but they’ve continually faced flat or shrinking budgets at a time of growing needs.  Funding programs that allow seniors to age in place is cost-effective; however, the Older Americans Act languished for more than 5 years without Congressional reauthorization. 

Thankfully, this year is different.  Today we are celebrating Older Americans Month with a newly reauthorized OAA, signed by President Obama just a few weeks ago:

“The President believes in the Older Americans Act because it funds services that are central to older adults’ health and lasting independence, such as meals, job training, transportation, and health promotion.  And for those who do need consistent care, the law provides nursing home protections and enhances the Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs.”  Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor and Assistant to the President

The celebration continues as The Leadership Council of Aging Organizations (@LCAgingOrgs), chaired by the National Committee, will host a Twitter chat on May 24 @ 1-2 p.m. ET to celebrate Older Americans Month—and call for funding investments in Older Americans Act programs. You’re invited to join the chat using #WeAreOAA.

Join at www.twitter.com/#WeAreOAA or at http://twubs.com/WeAreOAA