2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the Older Americans Act (OAA) being written into law. This landmark legislation has transformed aging services across the country, helping millions of older adults access the care, resources and support we all need to age with dignity. Each year, Trellis awards approximately $13 million in OAA funds to dozens of organizations throughout the Twin Cities metro area. These organizations provide more than 30,000 older adults and caregivers home-delivered meals, respite programs, transportation and countless other resources so we can all thrive as we age.
As impressive as these numbers are, the Older Americans Act can be boiled down to one simple yet powerful idea—neighbors helping neighbors.
Every OAA dollar ensures older adults and caregivers can connect with the resources they want and need to age on their terms. Here are just a few examples of how OAA funds impact people in our community. (Note: Names have been changed to protect privacy.)
Cliff
Cliff receives home-delivered meals regularly from Metro Meals on Wheels. Cliff says it would be nearly impossible for him to buy the healthy food he needs to manage his diabetes on a fixed income. “If it wasn’t for Meals on Wheels, I wouldn’t have food that I could afford.”
Katie
Katie is a caregiver for her husband who has memory loss. She says, “I love my husband and seven days all 24 hours is too much time to spend with one person, no matter how much you love them.” Katie attends The Breathing Space, a group respite care service through DARTS. “The Breathing Space gives me four hours per week to recharge and offers my husband interactions that keep him engaged and energized.”
Maria
Maria lives alone in her home, and her arthritis makes it difficult for her to take care of outdoor chores. She is always thrilled when she receives leaf raking assistance through DARTS: “They didn’t just clear my yard, they lifted my spirits.”
Tanya
Tanya cares for her mother, Jane, in the home they share in the east metro area of the Twin Cities. Jane lives with dementia and other chronic conditions. Tanya’s caregiving role is extensive, and she does nearly everything for Jane, from bathing her to making sure she takes her medication. She is her mother’s main source of mental stimulation and social connection.
Each week, Tanya gets a break with respite services provided by FamilyMeans. She also benefits from caregiver support services that have helped her find transportation resources, understand her mother’s chronic conditions, and connect with other caregivers for support. Tanya’s efforts have allowed Jane to live her life in the place she calls home.
Lynn
Lynn and her husband recently moved into an assisted living facility run by Korean Service Center. They will soon receive services such as meals, cleaning, nurse visits and more, helping relieve them of the challenges they faced while living independently. They have expressed that the move has also alleviated feelings of loneliness for them, and they now feel like they are part of a community.
Rita
At 80 years old, Rita has accumulated a lifetime of stories, laughter and love. However, she also experiences the challenges of aging. Recent issues with her knees were a cause for concern and Rita wondered if she could continue to live independently.
She connected with TRUST, Inc. and arranged transportation for her weekly grocery shopping. With door-to-door service, Rita receives personal assistance and reassurance, giving her the confidence to make her own choices. “I feel proud knowing that I am able to maintain my independence and grace, thanks to the support of TRUST, Inc.’s services.”
These are just a handful of stories that illustrate the local impact of the Older Americans Act. Recent changes within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have put the Older Americans Act in jeopardy. Now is the time to let legislators know the vital role the Act plays in your community. Follow the link below for sample language to contact your members of Congress and advocate for the Older Americans Act.
