First, it is the major categorical social services and nutrition service program provided in federal law for America's elderly.

Second, the national administrative network on aging, the Administration on Aging and the State and Area Agencies on Aging, has importance far beyond the particular monies that are spent and the services it stimulates or creates.

Third and perhaps most important, the Older Americans Act has been the focus or target of a significant and broad range of politics affecting older people, played out nationwide.