While Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security are being reported on daily about potential changes from the current administration, one topic that is not being discussed is the Older Americans Act (OAA).

The OAA has been around longer than Medicare and Medicaid but not being discussed. Which is disappointing, as the OAA supports core programs in our communities. The programs that the OAA supports include congregate meals (senior meals, meal sites are a few names they are known by), home-delivered meals (meals-on-wheels), chore services, transportation, caregiver services, and many more.

These programs are fundamental to assisting older adults in remaining independent and active in their communities.

 The programs that the OAA supports work to assist older adults and caregivers in their homes and communities. The nutrition programs not only focus on hunger and potential malnutrition but also provide a solution to combat social isolation and loneliness.

The OAA has recently expanded to support family caregivers. Caregiving is something that everyone can identify with. As former first lady Rosalynn Carter famously stated, “There are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.”

I think we can all identify as caregivers. Caregivers need counseling, support, and training to maintain a healthy balance between caring for a loved one and themselves. The OAA supports programs by providing Caregiver Coaching, Caregiver Training, and Support Groups, to name a few.

 The goal of the OAA is to provide support and opportunities for older adults and families before an emergency. So many times, decisions are made after an emergency event. We all become better prepared to respond to and prevent an emergency by empowering older adults, caregivers, and their families.

Through evidence-based classes, older adults can improve their balance (limit the risk of falls), live better with chronic disease, or improve health through SAIL (stay active and independent for life) courses.

 The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently announced a significant transition within its department. Unfortunately, this has included the elimination of critical aging programs. Our congressional representatives and senators must understand the importance of the Older Americans Act. The programs that the OAA supports are fundamental to assisting older adults to thrive.

I call on our Federal elected officials to reauthorize the Older Americans Act and to maintain current funding levels.  

— Jason Swanson is executive director of the Minnesota River Area Agency on Aging, Inc.