The National Alliance for Care at Home (the Alliance) commends the Senate for passing the Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2024 (S. 4776) on December 10, 2024. This important legislation reaffirms the nation’s commitment to supporting older adults and their families by providing essential resources and policies that promote aging in place and enhance the quality of care.

Originally enacted in 1965, the Older Americans Act (OAA) has been a cornerstone in addressing the needs of the aging population. This reauthorization introduces vital updates that closely align with the Alliance’s mission of promoting home care and home health care services. Several key provisions are particularly impactful for the home care industry:
Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Services

The Act highlights disease prevention and health promotion, including evidence-based programs designed to reduce healthcare costs. This focus supports home care’s proactive role in maintaining the health and independence of older adults in their own homes.

Home Modifications and Aging in Place

Provisions for residential repairs and weatherization projects will help older adults remain in their homes longer. These initiatives improve safety and accessibility, and advancing the goal of aging in place.

Support for Family Caregivers

The reauthorization strengthens the National Family Caregiver Support Program, with a particular focus on respite care and other critical support. These resources are essential for families relying on home care services, and they help ease the strain on both caregivers and home care providers facing workforce challenges.

Improving Health Outcomes

By promoting falls prevention and encouraging interagency coordination, the Act enhances efforts to reduce risks that could lead to hospitalization or institutional care. These measures contribute to more preventative patient-centered care.

Broadband Access to Reduce Social Isolation

Recognizing the importance of technology in connecting older adults with caregivers and telehealth services, the Act includes provisions to expand broadband access, and further integrate technology into home care.

The Alliance is particularly encouraged by the Act’s comprehensive approach, which addresses both physical and social determinants of health. These updates underscore the vital role that home care plays in the broader aging service network, providing critical support to older adults and their families.

Next Steps

The Senate has now sent the Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2024 to the House, where it is currently being held at the desk.