Enacted in 1965 by President Lyndon Johnson, The Older Americans Act mandates many Home and Community Based Services for Older Americans. (60+)
The legislation has been amended a number of times since it was passed, but most notably in 1984 when President Regan designated May as Older American’s Month.
Many benefits came from the OAA. It created and established a state Office on Aging by county and we enjoy the benefits of that decision here in Colorado where we have wonderful people working to provide our quality of life.
- Nutritional Services
- Family Caregiver Support
- Disease Prevention
- Health Promotion
- Ombudsman Services
- Adult day Care Services
- Home Care Services & initiatives
Direct Services:
- Congregate Meals and Nutritional Education at Community Senior Centers.
- Home delivered Meals (often called Meals on Wheels)
- Personal Care: including Home Respite, Homemaker & Chores
- Health Assessment
- Transportation
All Individuals Age 60, or older are eligible to participate in this initiative. However, states do target services to lower income folks due to funding levels.
The expressed Goal of the OAA is helping most elderly remain independent.