Mental health provisions in the reauthorized Older Americans Act: Collaborative strategies by AoA and SAMHSA

In 2006 the Older Americans Act was reauthorized and signed into law. The recent amendments include important provisions that address the mental health needs of older adults. The Administration on Aging (AoA) will discuss these new provisions, including the development of a long term plan focused on age-related mental health issues and the coordination of aging and mental health State and local efforts. AoA and a representative from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will highlight how they are working together and individually to support the new mental health provisions. The presentation will include a discussion of evidence-based geriatric mental health and substance abuse programs and the resources available to identify and implement them. Presenters will also review how the State and local levels are currently planning for and addressing the mental health and substance abuse needs of older adults. A facilitated discussion will encourage feedback concerning the mental health provisions of the reauthorized Act and how Federal plans and activities can best support the mental health and substance abuse prevention needs of older adults at the State and local level.