On the 50th anniversary of the Older Americans Act, the Senate reauthorized the landmark law by unanimous consent. Sen. Bernie Sanders, who has led the effort to increase support for critical social and nutrition services for seniors, applauded the passage of the bipartisan bill.

“The Older Americans Act has been extremely important for low-income older Vermonters and seniors across the country,” said Sanders. “Programs like Meals on Wheels are keeping seniors healthy and out of expensive hospitals and nursing homes. I am pleased to see this bill pass with such strong support today.”

The Older Americans Act (OAA) provides essential services for nearly 12 million seniors such as nutrition programs, job training, caregiver support, transportation and protection from abuse and financial exploitation.

Karla M. from Greenville, Texas, wrote about how the OAA has helped her family: “My father passed away last year at 93 and my mother is 94 and lives with me now. Both of my parents received Meals on Wheels and not only was it beneficial for nutrition, it helped ease the burden of worry from the family. For my family, the government programs that helped them helped all of my family.”