Signed into law in 1965, the Older Americans Act (OAA) envisioned a nationwide system of organizations that plan, coordinate, and deliver services to support the independence, health, and well-being of older adults – the Aging Network. The Aging Network operates through a federated structure that begins with the federal Administration for Community Living (ACL) and extends to state, regional, and local public, private and nonprofit partners. These organizations work together to ensure that older adults can access person-centered services ranging from nutritional support to caregiver assistance, elder rights protections, health promotion, and long-term services and supports.
State Units on Aging (SUAs) are designated state-level agencies responsible for administering OAA programs, developing statewide aging plans, allocating funds to local entities, and overseeing program quality and compliance. SUAs provide policy leadership, coordinate interagency activities, and serve as the primary liaison between the federal government and local aging organizations.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are public or private nonprofit agencies designated by the SUA to carry out regional planning, service coordination, and contracting for direct services. AAAs may be categorized as a county, city, regional planning council or council of governments, private, or nonprofit. AAAs coordinate statewide priorities into community-specific programming and ensure that older adults have access to services that reflect local needs and demographics. AAAs provide input to the state on policy and program recommendations that reflect the needs of their consumers, service providers, and community.
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Complementing these public agencies are a range of nonprofit, private and community-based organizations (CBOs), including senior centers, long-term care ombudsman programs, legal assistance providers, tribal aging programs, and disability and aging resource centers. CBOs are local, often nonprofit organizations that provide support and services for older adults and aim to help older adults remain independent and connected with their communities.
These organizations deliver direct services, provide advocacy, and offer specialized supports to extend the Aging Network’s reach. Working together, the Aging Network forms an integrated system that promotes aging with dignity, autonomy, and connection to community.
To learn more about the Older Americans Act, ADvancing States offers these two comprehensive reviews:
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The Older Americans Act 101 – this online training course is available on the ADvancing States IQ. A free profile is needed to access IQ course materials.