A Joint Message from the Aging Network

To our networks:

We know that these have been trying and uncertain times as you seek information on the recent proposed changes happening at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that could impact programs that are vital to both older Americans and their caregivers to whom you provide life-sustaining and often life-saving services.  

We collectively stand with you and want to assure you that we are working tirelessly on behalf of the Aging Network to get answers, to drive informed decisions and most importantly, to advocate to ensure that older adults and caregivers in need experience no disruption in service. This is particularly critical when it comes to access to nutritious meals, healthy aging and other supportive services—whether delivered in homes or provided in senior centers—to enable our seniors to live safely, well and independent at home. To this end, our five organizations are more aligned than ever, in service to you and the older adults and caregivers you passionately serve in communities large and small, across the country.

While we are working every day at the national level to exert our influence and make our voices heard, we encourage you to also educate policymakers, where appropriate. Your mayors, county officials, state legislators, governors and Members of Congress all need to understand and hear your concerns about how changes made in Washington, DC, could impact your ability to effectively meet the needs of the older adults you serve. There is nothing more compelling than to share the stories of those who depend on Older Americans Act (OAA) programs and services and the supporting data that demonstrates that your services save money by keeping seniors healthier at home and avoiding unnecessary and far more costly hospitalizations and nursing home placements.

We know you are committed to doing all you can to continue serving the older adults and caregivers in your communities, and we join you in preserving that mission. Visit our respective websites and/or member portals to learn more about why it matters and how to make your voices heard.

P.S. You can view the joint letters we have sent to Sec. Kennedy here and to the leaders of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce here.