Thursday, June 12, 2025
On May 28, AgeGuide and its funded partners hosted a powerful Statewide Advocacy Day—and the response across our region was inspiring. With 16 events held across all 8 counties, our community showed up in force to support older adults and the vital services they rely on.
Over 700 participants gathered to raise their voices, share their stories, and urge lawmakers to protect the Older Americans Act (OAA)—a lifeline that funds meals, transportation, caregiver support, and more. The coordinated effort welcomed 26 elected officials and legislative staffers, making it clear that aging services are a top priority for communities throughout northeastern Illinois.
These events weren’t just symbolic—they were strategic. Legislators heard firsthand how OAA-funded programs make independence possible for older adults, reduce strain on caregivers, and ultimately save taxpayer dollars by preventing costlier interventions.
Participants took action on the spot, signing letters, calling representatives, rallying outside with signs about saving the Older Americans Act, and sharing personal stories. Many left feeling more empowered—and more connected—than ever.
Advocacy Pays Off: A Federal Update
Thanks to the tireless advocacy of older adults, community leaders, service providers, and concerned individuals—including all who showed up on May 28—there’s good news to share.
As of May 30, the Trump Administration announced a significant reversal in its proposed reorganization of the Department of Health and Human Services. Earlier drafts of the FY 2026 budget would have split up and slashed key OAA programs, including eliminating funding for Title III D (disease prevention) and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.
But the revised federal proposal now keeps all OAA programs intact and housed together in one newly named agency, the Administration for Children, Families, and Communities. Even more encouraging, no funding cuts were included in the final President’s budget for critical aging programs like the OAA, SHIP, ADRCs, or Adult Protective Services.
This reversal is a direct result of collective advocacy efforts, including the voices raised right here in our region.
The Work Isn’t Over—Take Action Now
While this federal update is a major victory, the fight isn’t over. The future of aging services depends on our continued vigilance, education, and advocacy.
If you haven’t yet taken action, we urge you to visit our Action Alert page to continue the advocacy work. There, you can send a message to your representatives and help us keep up the momentum to protect the programs older adults and caregivers count on every day.
Let’s continue to stand strong—for the OAA, for aging with dignity, and for a future where all older adults can thrive.
