The United States Administration on Aging (AoA) is a division of the U.S. department of Health and Human Services. Their mission is "to promote the dignity and independence of older people, and to help society prepare for an aging population.

"The Older Americans Act clearly affirms our Nation's sense of responsibility toward the well-being of all of our older citizens. But even more, the results of this act will help us to expand our opportunities for enriching the lives of our citizens in this country, now and in the years to come."

There are six core service areas of the AoA. They are Supportive Services, Nutrition Services, Preventive Health Services, National Family Caregiver Support Program, Services that Protect the Rights of Vulnerable Older Persons and, Services to Native Americans.

Supportive Services are an extension of community services and include such things as providing rides to medical appointments, providing personal care services or even home repair.

Nutrition services includes meal and much more. There is also nutrition information, camaraderie and education. The Nutrition program has been in effect for 32 years and has provided over 6 billion meals to older people in need.

Preventive Health Services is an educational tool. The goal of this service is to promote a healthy lifestyle and good choices that will make aging an easier transition for both the aging person and the caregiver. Topics such as healthy diet, exercise, smoking, social interaction and much more are part of this service area.

The National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) was first funded in the year 2000 and was created to fill some of the needs of family members who are the primary caregiver of spouses, parents and older relatives. It helps the caregiver access information, programs and available services. It makes available counseling and assistance in problem-solving relating to the new role of caregiver.

This same program recognizes that grandparents are often primary caregivers for young grandchildren, and assists with those needs as well.

In the area of "Services that protect the rights of vulnerable older persons" this Act is designed to protect people from elder abuse, fraud and fear. Older Americans are empowered by information and services that help them maintain physical, mental, emotional and financial well-being.

The sixth area is specific to Native Americans. It includes nutrition and supportive services that are designed to address tribal and cultural needs of aging native Americans, including Native Hawaiians.

If you or someone you know is in need of services or resources in your community you can call the Eldercare Locator, which is a national toll-free service supported by AoA. They can be reached at 1-800-677-1116.