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Older Americans Act 50th Anniversary

Floor Speech

Date: July 14, 2015
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Senior Citizens Entitlements and the Safety Net Health and Health Care

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Mr. Speaker, today marks the 50th anniversary of the landmark Older Americans Act, which President Lyndon Johnson signed into law on July 14, 1965.

Congress passed the Older Americans Act in response to concerns by policymakers about a lack of community social services for older persons.

The Older Americans Act is the major federal vehicle for the delivery of social and nutrition services for older persons.
It ensures seniors have transportation to medical appointments, the grocery store, adult day care and more.

It provides critical support and respite services to those caring for older adults--and, today, over 35 million Americans are family caregivers for older Americans.

The Older Americans Act also promotes health and well-being--helping manage diabetes, prevent falls, and improve behavioral health so seniors can live at home in their community.

The Older Americans Act has been serving our seniors and families well for half a century.

With 10,000 Americans turning 65 each day, we have an obligation to keep the Older Americans Act strong.

Just yesterday, President Obama spoke at the 2015 White House Conference on Aging to emphasize the importance of addressing aging issues and reauthorization of the Older Americans Act.

Across the country, older Americans are running businesses, helping to raise their grandchildren, serving as teachers,
acting as mentors, and contributing their many talents for the better of their community.

I am committed to making sure that Americans are able to enjoy the secure retirement they deserve--whether they are already retired, are about to retire or are just starting out.

I will continue to work to protect and expand Social Security, improve health care affordability, and create affordable long-term care options.

Americans who have worked hard, raised families, and kept our country strong should be able to live their years in retirement with dignity and independence.

The Older Americans Act helps them do that by providing critical services to millions of senior citizens and their families.

Reauthorization of this important piece of legislation should occur as soon as possible.

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