The Older Americans Act

The Older Americans Act of 1965 was aimed at protecting the rights of the elderly. The OAA also allowed for federally funded services for the elderly, which would be run by the Administration on Aging and the National Aging Network.

Together, these groups provide funding for programs for the elderly, based on the population in each geographic location. These services can include meals which are delivered to the homes of the elderly that are not able to cook or have no one to care for them. In addition, they may receive nutritional counseling, as well as social support.

The OAA also provides for community based services for those that are ambulatory. These programs are aimed at education on disease prevention, as well as the availability of vaccines and other health services. There are seminars and discussion groups, to be certain that the elderly are fully aware of the rights.

For example, seminars may include lessons on estate planning, as well as actions that can be taken in cases of abuse or neglect.

The Older Americans Act was aimed at promoting and protecting the rights of the elderly. In addition to providing services and educational programs, the Act funds a variety of services that would otherwise not exist. There are services which can help the elderly confront legal issues including estate planning and issues of guardianship. In fact, they may have access to free legal advice through the programs.