Which government agency is responsible for policy development, planning, and funding the delivery of home-based meal services for older adults and caregivers?

The Agency on Aging (AoA), now part of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, plays a crucial role in supporting the development of policies and funding for programs aimed at helping older adults and their caregivers. One of the primary functions of the AoA is to ensure that older individuals have access to essential services that promote their health, well-being, and independence.

In the context of home-based meal services, the AoA oversees initiatives that specifically cater to the nutritional needs of older adults, especially those who are homebound or at risk of malnutrition. This includes supporting meal programs that provide nutritious food and social interaction, which is vital for the physical and mental health of seniors. Thus, the AoA is directly responsible for the planning and funding of these services, helping to maintain quality care and support to aging populations.

The other agencies listed, such as the USDA and FDA, focus on food safety and general agricultural policies rather than specifically targeting older adults' home meal services. The Older Americans Act (OAA) is legislation that provides funding and supports for programs including those run by the AoA, but it is the AoA that is specifically tasked with the hands-on policy development and