Celebrating 51 Years of the Older Americans Act

​“The Older Americans Act clearly affirms our nation’s sense of responsibility toward the well-being of all of our older citizens. But even more, the results of this act will help us to expand our opportunities for enriching the lives of all of our citizens in this country, now and in the years to come.”

President Lyndon B. Johnson spoke these words 51 years ago today as he signed the Older Americans Act (OAA) into law. In the decades since, the OAA has indeed enriched the lives of many as the foundation for a system of services and supports that helps millions of older adults continue to work, play, and volunteer in their communities, to the great benefit of all. The OAA underpins a promise to preserve the right to live independently, with dignity, making everyday decisions according to our individual preferences and goals across our lifespan.

In April of this year, Congress passed and the President signed a reauthorization of the OAA, reaffirming our nation’s commitment to the health and well-being of older adults. This was the latest of many milestones for the law over the last 51 years.

​Learn about earlier milestones and the OAA’s impact on older adults today (click on either image below for the corresponding full-size, accessible infographic PDF):