While acknowledging that most help for older Americans come from their families, DiNitto and Cummins (2005) states that “the goals of the OAA sound more like a wish list than a set of objectives that are likely to be achieved by government” (p. 313).

They then list the following as the stated goals of this program:

- An adequate income in retirement in accordance with the U. S.

  standard of living.

           - The best possible physical and mental health that science can make

  available without regard to economic status.

           - Suitable housing that is independently selected, designed, and located

  with reference to special needs and available at costs older citizens

  can afford.

           - Full restorative services for those who require institutional care.

           - Opportunity for employment with no discriminatory practices

 because of age.

- Retirement in health, honor, and dignity – after years of contri-

   bution to the economy.

- Pursuit of meaningful activity within the widest range of civic,

   cultural and recreational opportunities.

- Efficient community services, including access to low-cost trans-

  portation, that provides a choice in supported living arrangements

  and social assistance in a coordinated manner and that are readily

 available when needed.

- Immediate benefit from proven research knowledge that can sustain

   And improve health and happiness.

- Freedom, independence, and the free exercise of individual initiative

   in planning and managing one’s own life.

(DiNitto and Cummins, 2005, p. 313). 
    

     This list is more ambitious than those found for the OAA in other sources. But

Atchley (2000) calls for even more. He calls for government help in supplying older adults with more consumer protection, dental care, appliances designed for the elderly, clothes designed for special needs of older adults, designing furniture and buildings that are older adult friendly, and more protection from age discrimination.