42 U.S.C. § 3031

(1)

to expand the Nation’s knowledge and understanding of the older population and the aging process;

(2)

to design, test, and promote the use of innovative ideas and best practices in programs and services for older individuals;

(3)

to help meet the needs for trained personnel in the field of aging; and

(4)

to increase awareness of citizens of all ages of the need to assume personal responsibility for their own longevity.