Protecting Aging Services: USAging’s Response to the HHS Reorganization

Statement by Sandy Markwood, CEO, USAging on the Reorganization of HHS

Ours is a rapidly aging nation with a historic percentage of older Americans that is only going to grow as a share of the U.S. population in the coming years. As representatives of the local agencies serving millions of older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers across the country, USAging is concerned at this critical point in our nation’s demographic history about the possible impacts of the changes proposed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) with the dissolution of the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), the federal agency currently responsible for overseeing the critical programs and services that help older adults and people with disabilities live well at home and in the community.

Millions of older adults across America rely on Older Americans Act programs to receive nutritious meals; access transportation to doctors’ appointments; participate in evidence-based programs targeted to chronic diseases and falls prevention; and receive in-home supportive services, such as help with bathing and dressing. Any federal changes to programs and people who support older adults need to be considered in light of the impact on the ability of older Americans to be able to age well, with health, dignity and independence.

We have urgent questions about how the dismantling of ACL and the movement of its programs amidst overall significant federal staff reductions will affect the people we are charged to serve, their families and their communities across the United States.

It is essential that the HHS reorganization does not create gaps in aging service delivery; lead to fewer resources for agencies and community-based organizations charged with planning and delivering those services; or ultimately create situations where older Americans are hungrier, less healthy, less safe or less independent—and their family caregivers are more burdened and stressed.

We urge the Trump Administration to ensure that the breaking apart of ACL’s functions does not reduce the federal government’s commitment to elevating aging issues or to meeting the needs of the millions of older adults who need in-home and community support to remain living well at home. 

Sandy Markwood is the CEO of USAging, a national organization that supports Area Agencies on Aging and advocates for policies and programs that help older adults and people with disabilities live independently. She is a recognized leader in aging policy and has dedicated her career to advancing community-based services for older adults and their caregivers.