A federal budget of $3.55 trillion dollars would appear to indicate that there is money to go around for all federal programs. However, only 18 percent of that budget is left to fund all programs outside of Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, defense, other entitlement programs, and payment toward the federal debt. The 18 percent, or $639 billion, is spread among all federally funded programs, aging being just one.

The federal Administration on Aging is requesting $1.5 billion for the fiscal year 2011 budget—only $30 for each person 60 and older in the United States.

The 1965 Older Americans Act is up for reauthorization in 2011. This act created Area Agencies on Aging through the states; provided for Meals on Wheels and congregate nutrition programs; and funded caregiver programs, disease prevention, health promotion, and a variety of in-home services all designed to allow for independent living at home.

"Reauthorization" is about authority to continue assisting older Americans, but it is not about funding. Funding for the Older Americans Act has been flat for several years. Current projections are for a $135 million increase to the act once it is reauthorized. This would be an increase of only $2.50 per person 60 and older for the coming year.

The Administration on Aging is focusing on the Affordable Care Act, the health care reform act passed earlier this year. According to Kathy Greenlee, assistant secretary of aging, four main opportunities accompany this new legislation:

• The opportunity to enhance primary prevention across the life span. This would involve programs and initiatives that could result in healthier older Americans.
• The Elder Justice Act, which will help protect older Americans from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Care transition, or assistance by trained case managers to help the elderly meet the needs of aging in the community.
• The Community Living Assistance Services and Support Act, a voluntary long-term care insurance program that will help older Americans maintain independence and financial stability.

On an even more positive note, advocacy for aging programs can make a difference. Legislators can be positively influenced by their 50 million senior constituents. To learn more about future policy and direction for aging services and programs, visit www.n4a.org.