The federal agency charged by the Older Americans Act (OAA) with serving the 43 million senior citizens in the U.S. The AoA is a new Operating Division of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The head of this agency was recently elevated from Commissioner to Assistant Secretary, reflecting an increased concern by the government for issues relating to aging. This concern is fueled in part by the following demographics cited by the AoA: (1) One in every six Americans is a senior citizen. (2) Since 1900, the percentage of Americans 65 and older has more than tripled and their numbers have increased tenfold. By the 21st Century the number of seniors will double yet again. (3) The fastest-growing age segment in the United States is the population aged 85 and older. (4) A child born today can expect to live 75.5 years, about 28 years longer than a child born in 1900. (5) Many seniors today enjoy greater health and security, but many others are at risk of losing their independence through abuse, neglect or physical or mental impairments or are living alone without a caregiver. (6) Other older Americans are rich in knowledge and skills, and are seeking opportunities to contribute to their communities.
An agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that conducts research in the field of aging and assists federal, state, and local agencies in planning and developing programs for the aged. It is responsible for implementing the Older Americans Act of 1965.