2024 Final Rule to Update Older Americans Act Regulations

Read the Press Release: Final Rule to Update Regulations for Older Americans Act Programs

"The updated regulations strengthen the stability and sustainability of these programs, and we are looking forward to working with our partners in the aging network to implement them." Alison Barkoff

Strengthening the System that Helps Millions Age in Place

Through the aging services network, the OAA helps older adults continue to work and volunteer, live independently and age with dignity, to the great benefit of all. ACL has compiled a variety of resources below to help support the aging services network implementing these critical OAA programs. This includes technical assistance resources to support implementation of the 2024 OAA final rule. The first substantial update to most OAA program regulations since 1988, the rule aligns regulations to the current statute, addresses issues that have emerged since the last update and clarifies a number of requirements.

The 2024 Older Americans Act Final Rule

Our world has changed dramatically in the 36 years that have passed since the last substantial update to the regulations for most of ACL’s Older Americans Act Programs in 1988. The population of older adults has nearly doubled, and older adults are living longer than ever before. Their expectations for aging are different from those of earlier generations. Increased understanding of the impact of the social determinants of health is reshaping health care, as non-medical services that help people avoid hospitalization and institutional care – like those provided through OAA programs – are increasingly being incorporated into health care service delivery models. In addition, the OAA has been amended by Congress seven times since 1988.

One important thing has not changed, however. Older adults overwhelmingly want to continue to live independently, in the community – and nearly 95 percent of them do, many with the support of ACL’s OAA programs.

In February 2024, ACL released a final rule to update regulations for implementing Older Americans Act programs. The update aims to better support the national aging network that delivers OAA services and improve program implementation, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that the nation's growing population of older adults can continue to receive the services and supports they need to live – and thrive – in their own homes and communities.

This two-page handout provides a brief overview of the final rule. This longer fact sheet includes additional details about the rule.

About the Older Americans Act

First passed in 1965 and last reauthorized on March 25, 2020, the OAA authorizes a wide range of programs and services, most of which focus on helping older adults age in place. These services include home-delivered and congregate meals, support for family caregivers, preventive health services, personal and home care services, transportation, legal assistance, elder abuse prevention, and so much more. In addition, the OAA provides ombudsman services for people who live in long-term care facilities. Because of the OAA, neighborhoods and organizations across the country are able to continue to draw upon the wealth of knowledge that comes only with life experience.