August 2026 MIlestones

AUGUST 2026 IN THIS ISSUE

PCA PROGRAMS SUPPORT HEALTHY AGING

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EVERYONE HAS A STORY: LEARN TO TELL YOURS

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FEELING DIZZY? IT COULD BE VERTIGO.

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FREE

National Wellness Month: Make Yourself a Priority!

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Wellness is often found in everyday moments

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is the Area Agency on Aging for Philadelphia County and is dedicated to serving Philadelphia’s older adults and adults with disabilities.

PCA publishes Milestones and offers: • Care in the home • Caregiver & grandparent support • Employment & volunteer programs • Health education • Home-delivered meals Report suspect­ed elder • Home repairs & modifications abuse 24/7 to the PCA Help­ • Information & referral line: 215-765-9040.

• Legal services • Ombudsman services For general inquiries about • Protective services PCA or aging services, email • Senior centers AskHelpline@pcaCares.org • Transportation • Veteran-directed care or call 215-765-9040.

ports caregivers, and ensures that older adults can access the services they need to remain healthy and independent.

A warm greeting at a senior center. A The Fall Fundraiser benefits PCA’s shared meal with friends. A caregiver Rodney D. Williams Philadelphia Fund receiving support during a challenging for Seniors. This fund supports essential time. These moments help older adults services that help older adults maintain stay connected, maintain independence, their health, independence, and quality of and enjoy a higher quality of life. life while aging in place.

At PCA, wellness extends beyond As we celebrate National Wellness physical health. It includes feeling safe, Month, I want to thank our community valued, and connected. It means having partners and supporters. Your support of the support needed to remain active in PCA helps older adults across Philadelthe communities people know and love. phia live with dignity, good health and That is why PCA’s work goes beyond strong social connections. services alone. Through nutritious meals, caregiver support, senior center activities, health promotion programs, and other reTo learn more about PCA services sources, PCA supports the well-being of and ways to support older adults older Philadelphians in meaningful, ev- throughout Philadelphia, call the PCA eryday ways.

Helpline at 215-765-9040 or visit Our annual Fall Fundraiser helps make www.pcaCares.org/services. this work possible. Support from our community helps reduce loneliness, supBy Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP PCA President & CEO

Published by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP President and CEO

Milestones is published monthly and distributed at more than 800 locations throughout Philadelphia.

PCA Board of Directors 2026 Glenn D. Bryan, Chair Louis G. Colbert, Co-Chair Check us out online: pcaCares.org Jaqueline S. Zinn, Ph.D., Secretary Denise Adamucci, Treasurer Editorial & Distribution: Satya B. Verma, O.D., Immediate Past Alicia M. Colombo Chair 267-507-2168 Cheryl Croxton Patricia Canela-Duckett Lynette Killen Norma D. Thomas, DSW Sharlene Waller Arthur E. Helfand, DPM, Board Chair Emeritus

MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org Advertising: Kristin Long 215-606-7310 Kristin.Long@pcaCares.org Subscriptions: Home delivery: $12/year MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org

The views expressed in Milestones are not necessarily those of Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). Milestones will not knowingly accept or publish fraudulent or misleading advertising. Milestones reserves the right to edit, revise or reject ads. Milestones assumes no responsibility for errors, misprints, omissions or misinformation; for failure to publish an ad; or for any damages of any kind. Neither the publisher nor any other party is rendering expert advice in this publication. No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without the permission of PCA. ©2026 Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. All rights reserved.

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PCA programs help older adults age well •

By Bill Conallen Healthy aging is about more than avoiding illness. It means having the information, support and resources to stay active, manage health conditions, eat healthy foods and remain independent.

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) offers several programs to help older Philadelphians take charge of their health and well-being. These programs include health and wellness programs, nutrition services, and Medicare counseling.

“Healthy aging is not only about what happens in a doctor’s office,” says Wanda Mitchell, PCA’s director of Community Engagement.

“It is also about making sure older adults have access to programs in their own communities that help them stay active, informed and connected.”

PCA’s health and wellness pro-

grams are free for Philadelphia residents 60 and older. Workshops are held throughout the city at senior centers, apartment buildings, houses of worship and other community locations. Many programs are led by trained community volunteers.

Through the Pennsylvania Department of Aging’s Health and Wellness Program, PCA supports evidence-based programs that focus on exercise, managing chronic diseases and preventing falls. These programs have been tested and shown to improve health outcomes.

One of PCA’s key offerings is education and support for people living with chronic health conditions.

These workshops are designed for older adults with conditions such as arthritis, chronic pain, heart disease or diabetes. Caregivers are also welcome to participate.

PCA offers programs for chronic disease management, diabetes man-

agement and chronic pain management. Each workshop series meets once a week for six weeks. Participants learn practical ways to manage symptoms, talk with health care providers, make informed health decisions and build healthy daily habits. Virtual and telephone-based options are available upon request.

PCA also offers exercise-based programs that help older adults stay active and independent.

Walk With Ease, developed by the Arthritis Foundation, is a sixweek walking program offered at PCA-funded senior centers. It is designed for people with arthritis or other chronic health conditions and is led by trained facilitators.

Participants learn how to: Reduce pain and improve health with physical activity • Set realistic goals • Create walking plans •

Improve strength, balance and overall health

Another program, EnhanceFitness, is available at PCA-funded senior centers throughout the city. Developed by Sound Generations in partnership with the University of Washington and Group Health Cooperative, the program is designed for older adults of all fitness levels.

Classes are held year-round and led by certified instructors. Each one-hour session includes a warmup, balance exercises, strength training, aerobic activity, stretching and a cool-down period. The goal is to help participants become more active, energetic and confident in living independently.

Preventing falls is another important part of PCA’s health and wellness efforts. Falls can cause injuries, reduce independence and make older adults afraid to stay active. PCA offers programs that help participants understand their risk of falling and learn ways to lower that risk.

Healthy Steps for Older Adults is a fall-prevention program offered through the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. Available to adults 60 and older, the program helps participants recognize fall risks, learn prevention strategies and connect with additional resources.

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls helps older adults reduce their fear of falling while staying active. Participants learn ways to improve strength, prevent falls and reduce the chance of injury. Sessions include group (Continued on page 5)

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discussion, problem-solving activities, videos and gentle exercise.

“PCA’s health and wellness programs give older adults tools they can use every day,” Mitchell says.

“Whether someone is learning how to manage diabetes, reduce chronic pain, prevent falls or become more physically active, these programs support independence and help people feel more confident in their health.”

PCA also works with community health organizations to provide health information, educational programs, screenings and support services for older adults. Most programs are held throughout the year at senior community centers.

Another important PCA service is Medicare counseling. Pennsylvania Medicare Education and De-

cision Insight (PA MEDI) provides free, one-on-one counseling to help Medicare beneficiaries understand their coverage options, enrollment periods, benefits and programs that may reduce health care costs.

PA MEDI counselors help older adults review their coverage and make informed decisions about Medicare. Counselors can also help eligible individuals apply for programs such as Extra Help and the Medicare Savings Program, which can lower prescription drug costs, premiums and other expenses.

Good nutrition is also an important part of healthy aging. Many older adults live on fixed incomes and may have difficulty getting healthy food. PCA’s nutrition programs provide meals approved by registered dieticians to help meet older

adults’ nutritional needs.

Meals are served at senior community centers across Philadelphia, where participants can enjoy lunch and spend time with others. For older adults who are unable to shop or cook, meals can also be delivered to their homes.

“Malnutrition can lead to serious health problems. But it is preventable,” says Lauren Jirinec, PCA assistant director of Health and Nutrition. “We are not just delivering food. We are delivering wellness, dignity and, in many cases, human connection. At congregate meal sites, people eat well. They also share time with friends, which is so important for mental health.”

The home-delivered meal program also provides an added layer of support for older adults who may

be isolated. Delivery drivers often check in on participants during meal deliveries and can help identify concerns that may require additional services.

Together, PCA’s Medicare counseling, health and wellness programs, and nutrition services provide a complete approach to healthy aging. Each program supports a different aspect of health, helping older Philadelphians stay healthy, independent and engaged in their communities.

To sign up for PCA’s health and wellness programs, including meals, fall prevention and chronic disease management workshops, and Medicare counseling, call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 or visit www.pcaCares.org.

Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.

We listen first, then bring the right care to you.

We help seniors stay safe and independent, all while receiving medical and social support services at our wellness center. At Mercy LIFE, empathy leads the way and experience gets you where you want to be.

PACE-E12458-2509

Contact us to learn if you or a loved one qualifies.

Call 215-339-4747 or visit mercylife.org.

From empathy to expertise.

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Anthony Murphy helps keep older adults safe and veterans sound want seniors to be good neighbors.

And we want a good neighbor next to a senior so that the senior isn’t just living in the community.

They become a vibrant part of the community.”

“Seniors have a great deal to offer. So, we also try to make sure we engage seniors in the community and get them involved. They are valuable; they bring a lot of wisdom. My philosophy is that a good neighbor is a blessing.”

In addition to helping communities organize to reduce crime and blight, TWIS supports the following programs: • Safe Corridors protects students traveling to and from school • Citizens Emergency Response Anythony Murphy, of Philadelphia’s Training teaches groups what Oak Lane neighborhood, leads the to do in case of disaster city’s Town Watch and Veterans • Drug prevention Parade.

• Leadership

By Jay Nachman • Anti-bullying Oak Lane resident Anthony • Neighborhood cleanups Murphy wears two hats.

TWIS sends trained staff into By day, Murphy is executive director of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, based on need, to Town Watch Integrated Services work with local leaders and host (TWIS). Outside of paid work, he discussions on a range of commuhelps to honor local veterans as nity issues. Together, they identify founder and president of the Phil- community objectives and develop plans for change. adelphia Veterans Parade.

The overall responsibility of TWIS trains residents who want Town Watch groups is to observe, to participate in an Eyes and Ears Town Watch Group. The program document and report. The groups teaches observation skills and work with police to assist in crime helps residents to be more aware prevention and reporting. TWIS also participates in local Police of their surroundings.

“We try to give you safety tips District Advisory Commissions.

After graduating from Dobbins as we teach you about being eyes and ears,” Murphy says. “We also High School in North Philadelphia,

Murphy enlisted in the Navy. The Vietnam-era veteran served as an electrician on two ships during the conflict — the Navy destroyer Leahy and the battleship New Jersey.

After leaving the Navy, Murphy worked for a nonprofit community intervention program, then called Operation Town Watch, in the early 1990s. He also earned a bachelor’s degree from Antioch University.

Approximately 12 years ago, Murphy joined with other veterans to found the Philadelphia Veterans Parade. The parade serves as a tribute to military service. It honors veterans, upholds their legacy and brings the community closer together through a vibrant celebration in Philadelphia on Veterans Day. “I think it’s important to salute the women and men who wrote a check in order for this nation to exist,” Murphy says. “And the check they wrote is that they put their life on the line to say, ‘I will give my life in order to secure our freedom.’ Many women and men paid that ultimate price. So, when you salute those who are still here, you are saluting those who have also transitioned because of war.

And they wrote that check. Everyone didn’t write that check.”

Murphy noted that many veterans who come home with trauma and other mental challenges do not get the services they need.

The parade and festival also bring attention to the issues veterans face. It is “symbolic of us saying, ‘Thank you’ to our service women and men.”

To learn more about Town Watch Integrated Services, whose mission is to make positive neighborhood change and create safe, supportive environments, call 215-686-1459 or visit www.phila.gov/departments (type “town watch” in the search bar).

To learn more about the Philadelphia Veterans Parade and Festival, visit www.PhillyVeteransParade.org.

Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.

Read for Life No-cost public library services are available to eligible Pennsylvania residents who have difficulty reading standard print because of a visual, physical or reading disability.

All physical materials are mailed postage-free to and from your doorstep. Digital downloads are also available. Materials include: • Large-print books • Audio books and magazines • Digital book machine • Braille books and downloads • Audio-described DVD movies • Digital audiobook downloads • Braille eReader For information, contact Library for Accessible Media (LAMP) at 1-800-222-1754 or www.MyLAMP.org

Powered by Curiosity. Driven by Connection.

Membership Enrollment & Course Registration: Aug. 3–19 The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Temple University is a welcoming community where adults age 50+ come together to learn, connect and grow. This fall semester, discover new interests, build meaningful connections and enjoy a variety of noncredit courses and enriching experiences.

Members also enjoy Shared Interest Groups, Tech Tutoring, educational trips, volunteer opportunities and more.

Learn more at: noncredit.temple.edu/olli

August 2026

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Events

AUGUST 5 PAINTING CLASS

Send your calendar items two months in advance to: MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org Questions? Call 267-507-2168.

AUGUST 10 COOKING CLASS

10 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Participants learn to cook a new healthy Allegheny, 1900 W. Allegheny Ave. 267- dish, try it & take home the recipe. 10 a.m.

286-1455 | $2 Lutheran Settlement House, 1340 Frankford Ave. 215-426-8610 | Free

AUGUST 14 TAI CHI

Relaxing class is great for mental health & physical fitness. 11:15 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts, 509 S. Broad St. 215-546-5879 | Free

AUGUST 11 POTTERY CLASS

Learn to create unique, hand-made objects.

Explore a variety of molds to craft decorative items & figurines. 10 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny, 1900 W. Allegheny Ave. 267-286-1455 | $3

AUGUST 6 CHAIR YOGA

AUGUST 15 FESTIVAL OF INDIA

Move through muscle-conditioning blocks & activity-specific drills to improve strength & functional skill. 10:30 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia, 10100 Jamison Ave. 215-698-7300 | Free

Celebrate the diversity in Philadelphia with a series of cultural festivals presented by PECO. 12-7 p.m. Cherry Street Pier at Penn’s Landing. 215-922-2FUN | Free

AUGUST 12 BINGO

10 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny, 1900 W Allegheny Ave. 267-2861455 | $0.10 per board; minimum of six

AUGUST 16 CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL

Celebrate the diversity in Philadelphia with a series of cultural festivals presented by PECO. 12-8 p.m. Cherry Street Pier at Penn’s Landing. 215-922-2FUN | Free

AUGUST 17 CHAIR ZUMBA AUGUST 7 LUNCH & CHAT

Join members of Philadelphia Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts for a meal & make new friends. 12:30 p.m. Chili’s, 1239 Filbert St. 215-546-5879 | Cost varies

Feel the beat! Lively mix of music, movement & energizing exercises designed to keep you strong & smiling. 9:30 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia, 10100 Jamison Ave. 215-698-7300 | Free

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AUGUST 18 ART THERAPY

Use art as a tool for expression & relaxation.

Noon. Center in the Park, 5818 Germantown Ave. 215-848-7722 | Free

AUGUST 20 POOL TOURNAMENT

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AUGUST 24 SILVER SNEAKERS

A health & fitness program designed for older adults, focusing on strength, flexibility & balance. 8 a.m. Center in the Park, 5818 Germantown Ave. 215-848-7722 | Free

AUGUST 25 Excitement, fun, skill & camaraderie meet. MAHJONG 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center, 2100 Cecil B. Moore Ave. 215-685-2715 | Free

Friendly game play, where older adults can learn or sharpen skills while enjoying social time with others. 12:30 p.m. Center on the Hill, 8855 Germantown Ave. 215-247-4654 | $2

AUGUST 26 KNITTING & CROCHET CLASS

Welcoming environment to learn or practice while socializing & creating handmade projects together. 9:30 a.m. Journey’s Way, 403 Rector St. 215-487-1750 | Free

Join friends in exercising while seated.

1 p.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts, 509 S. Broad St. 215-546-5879 | Free

Save the Dates: October 27-29, 2026 PCA’s Regional Conference on Aging “The Future Belongs to Wellness” This cutting-edge program offers continuing education for people who advocate for or work/volunteer with older adults. Nationally and regionally recognized content experts present relevant, practical and current information that will be immediately beneficial.

The conference kicks off with a panel of pundits who discuss aging issues and includes breakout sessions with timely content and well-defined learning objectives. Free CEU credits and parking.

For more information, go to www.pcaCares.org/events.

AUGUST 21 MOTOWN CABARET

Enjoy good times & good vibes while you groove to classic hits. Wear your favorite white attire. 3-6 p.m. PCA’s Firehouse Active Adult Center, 5331 Haverford Ave. 215-4726188 | $20

(See page 15 for crossword)

AUGUST 21 LINE DANCE CLASS

AUGUST 27 Get ready to move, groove & have fun in ART CLASS this energetic class. Beginners to seasoned dancers welcome. 9:30 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center, 2100 Cecil B. Moore Ave. 215-685-2715 | Free

AUGUST 28 SIT & BE FIT

Each week an instructor leads the class in creative basics. 10 a.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 1340 Frankford Ave. 215-426-8610 | Free

Recipe Box

Watermelon salad with grilled cheese cubes 1 large jalapeño pepper, seeded and cut into very thin strips 6 fresh basil leaves, cut into very thin strips

Directions:

In a small Mason jar, combine first 8 ingredients. Seal jar; shake for 1 minute, until emulsified and smooth. Refrigerate for up to a week.

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium until hot but not smoking.

Add just enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Add cheese slices. Sear both sides until medium golden brown, about 5 minutes total. Transfer to a cutting board.

In a large serving bowl, toss together watermelon and remaining ingredients until just incorporated. Cut grilled cheese into small cubes, then add to the bowl. Toss with enough dressing to lightly coat. Serve immediately.

In season this month Ingredients:

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for pan ¼ cup fresh lime juice (2–3 limes) 3 tbsp. honey 1 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro 1 tbsp. chopped fresh mint 2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 tsp. minced garlic 2 (8-oz.) pkgs. halloumi cheese OR 1 (12-oz.) block feta cheese, cut in ½-inch slices 6 cups seeded or seedless red watermelon, diced 2 pints heirloom cherry tomatoes in assorted colors, halved 2 medium cucumbers, seeded and cut into thin half-moons 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced crosswise 1 red or green bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin strips

The following fruits and vegetables are in season in Pennsylvania during August! Enjoy them now, when they are the most nutritious and delicious.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Apples Green beans Beets Blackberries Blueberries Cantaloupe Carrots Corn Cucumbers Eggplant Grapes Kale Mixed greens

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Mushrooms Nectarines Onions Peaches Pears Peppers Plums & pluots Potatoes Raspberries Squash Tomatoes Watermelon

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Everyone has a story: Learn how to tell yours

By Mary Anna Rodabaugh

Everyone has a story worth telling. Our experiences, traditions and lessons shape our own lives – and also those who come after us. Older adults are no exception. In fact, they may have some of the most valuable stories to share.

“We were all put on this earth for

a reason, and before we leave, we need to make sure that our story is passed on,” says Norma Thomas, Ph.D., co-founder of StoryJoy, Inc. and member of Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s board of directors.

In 2019, Thomas and her daughter, Rania León, Ph.D., co-founded StoryJoy to help members of historically and systemically marginalized communities tell their stories. It is based on the idea that storytelling brings people together and preserves wisdom that might otherwise be lost.

To support this mission, Thomas and León started the Generational Archives podcast about family history and personal stories. The podcast shows people how to learn more about their families and encourages listeners to record and save their

own stories.

StoryJoy believes that sharing stories helps preserve a person’s legacy. Our experiences become part of history and help future generations understand their family’s values, traditions and life experiences.

Thomas encourages people to rethink the way they view ancestry.

Many people think of ancestors only as people who have died. But when we think of ourselves as future ancestors, we become more aware of the example we set for others. We realize that the stories we share today can influence future generations.

During Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Regional Conference on Aging in October 2025, Thomas and León led a workshop about creating personal archives and preserving in-

dividual histories.

Participants were encouraged to reflect on important questions: • What do you want to be remembered for?

• What values do you hope future generations inherit?

• Which stories deserve to live beyond your lifetime?

Our stories, family traditions, hard-earned lessons, values, beliefs and generational wealth cannot be bought or sold. They are among the most meaningful gifts we can leave behind.

Age futurism

StoryJoy is built on a philosophy coined by Thomas and León. Age futurism is the idea of creating (Continued on page 13)

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a future where people are not judged because of their age and where growing older is seen in a positive way.

Age futurism believes that every person has value, no matter their age or abilities. Instead of seeing aging as a decline, it views older adults as people who have wisdom, life experience and much to contribute to their communities.

“Even older adults who are physically and mentally incapacitated should be considered able to contribute,” Thomas says. “Their stories are vital so that we learn from them, avoid repeating past mistakes and understand how they survived adversity.”

Those stories often contain practical knowledge that isn’t found in history books. These include coping strategies developed through hardship, family traditions, home remedies, recipes, caregiving experiences and lessons about perseverance.

Even individuals living with dementia may have moments of remarkable clarity. While they may repeat the same story more than once, Thomas believes there is often significance in those repeated memories.

“If they’re telling the story repeatedly,” she says, “perhaps it’s because it’s one we still need to hear.”

StoryJoy’s emphasis on generational interconnectedness has resonated strongly with older adults, many of whom have become some of the organization’s earliest supporters, advisors and participants. Older adults have also played an important role in supporting the African American History and Cultural Center of Fayette County, Pennsylvania helping transform it into a destination that welcomes visitors of all ages.

“One of our most recent workshops focused on digital storytelling and technology,” Thomas says. “Older adults made up most of the participants.”

Thomas and León hope to see even

August 2026

more older adults participate in future storytelling projects. They especially welcome individuals interested in recording their stories through audio or video interviews that may be featured on their podcast.

PCA is Here for You!

What’s next?

StoryJoy continues to expand its work through education, publications and community engagement.

In January 2027, Thomas’ book, “The History of African Americans in Fayette County,” is scheduled for publication.

Thomas and León also hope to present another workshop at the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Regional Conference on Aging this fall.

León, an accomplished writer and educator, has authored several books, including “black god mother this body,” “Canticle of Idols,” “Boogeyman Dawn,” and “sombra: (dis)locate.” She is also the founding editor of “The Acentos Review,” an international literary journal dedicated to promoting and publishing Latinx arts.

Among her many civic and literary honors, León serves as the 2026-2027 City of Philadelphia Poet Laureate. In that role, she leads workshops, gives public presentations, and uses poetry and storytelling to connect people across generations and communities.

Tell your story

StoryJoy believes every life holds wisdom worth preserving. Whether your story is shared through writing, conversation, audio recordings, photographs or family archives, documenting your experiences creates a legacy for future generations.

Anyone interested in learning more about StoryJoy’s upcoming programs or participating in the Generational Archives podcast can contact Norma Thomas or Rania León at storyjoyinc@gmail.com or 215-880-4718.

Mary Anna Rodabaugh is a writer, editor and writing coach.

Contact us for information and resources to assist older adults, caregivers and adults with disabilities in Philadelphia.

PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040 | AskHelpline@pcaCares.org Call to report elder abuse 24/7.

Learn about our services or request assistance online: www.pcaCares.org Milestones e-news: Receive Milestones newspaper by email for free.

Email MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org to sign up for the e-news or to share ideas for Milestones.

Connect with PCA on social media!

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August 2026

Understanding vertigo: Causes, symptoms and treatment options

By Mary Anna Rodabaugh

Vertigo in older adults can greatly increase the risk of falls and isolation. It is not a normal part of aging.

According to a study in the National Library of Medicine, dizziness affects more than half of adults 65-plus. The incidence increases with age.

“Vertigo is an umbrella term that can describe many different symptoms. It is not a diagnosis. Dizziness, imbalance, unsteadiness and lightheadedness are all ways to describe how vertigo may present in an individual,” says audiologist Barbara E. Stevenson, director of audiology at the Temple Head and Neck Institute, and assistant professor of head and neck surgery at Temple University.

The most common causes of dizziness in older adults are: • Inner ear disorders • Orthostatic hypotension, low blood pressure that occurs when standing • Cardiovascular issues • Neurological conditions, including stroke and brain tumors

Ménière’s disease may occur when the pressure of the fluid in the inner ear gets too high. Attacks often start without warning. They may occur daily or as rarely as once a year. The severity of each attack can vary. Some attacks may be severe and interfere with daily living activities.

“One thing everyone should know is that balance is not controlled by just one part of the body,” says Dr. Stevenson. “Your brain constantly combines information from the inner ears (vestibular system), your eyes, and sensory feedback from muscles and joints. If even one of these systems is disrupted, your balance can be affected.” These disruptions are caused by poor vision, inner ear problems, neuropathy, fatigue, dehydration or certain medications.

Central vertigo is caused by dysfunction within the central vestibular system or its connections to the brain and nervous system.

People with central vertigo may experience spinning, swaying, tilting or rocking.

Symptoms of vertigo may include: • Spinning sensations • Nausea or vomiting • Balance difficulties • Blurred vision • Headaches • Ringing in the ears • Difficulty walking or standing • Motion sensitivity

There are two primary categories of vertigo: peripheral and central.

Peripheral vertigo occurs when there is a problem within the inner ear or vestibular nerve. This nerve is part of the sensory system that is responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Both of these are critical to balance. There are several subtypes of peripheral vertigo.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a sudden spinning sensation that occurs with head movement. This condition is more common in adults 50-plus.

It can lead to falls and fractures.

BPPV often occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become displaced. This disrupts normal balance signals. When you move your head, the particles move around inside the ear. This sends a message to the brain that produces dizziness. BPPV can sometimes resolve on its own.

Treatment is available to relieve symptoms and increase stability.

Labyrinthitis occurs when there is inflammation within the inner ear. This type of ear infection causes swelling in both branches of the vestibulocochlear nerve.

This nerve sends vital information about balance to your brain.

Vestibular neuritis occurs when there is inflammation in one branch of the vestibulocochlear nerve. According to Cleveland Clinic, vestibular neuritis is the third most common cause of peVestibular and balance disorders ripheral vertigo. It affects four out affect a significant part of the popof every 100,000 people. ulation. These conditions are fre-

quently underdiagnosed.

Since vertigo greatly increases fall risk in older adults, prompt evaluation is important. Persistent dizziness, sudden hearing loss, fainting, difficulty walking or neurological symptoms should be evaluated by a health care professional immediately.

Treatment

While vertigo can interfere with daily activities and quality of life, it is treatable. Treatment for vertigo depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. Medications can reduce nausea, motion sickness or dizziness during severe episodes.

Physical therapy may be another treatment option. It can help patients improve balance and help the brain process balance signals more effectively.

“It may take seeing multiple specialists to identify the root cause of vertigo, and it is possible that it stems from multiple areas,” says Dr. Stevenson.

In some cases, treating an underlying condition, such as an ear infection, migraine disorder or cardiovascular issue, may resolve vertigo symptoms. Surgery is rarely required. But it may be considered for severe or persistent cases that do not respond to treatment.

Early diagnosis, vestibular rehabilitation, medication and lifestyle modifications can often reduce vertigo symptoms and improve stability.

Mary Anna Rodabaugh is a writer, editor and writing coach.

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Health Brief

Crossword

By Janai Johnson

Preventive care includes everyday habits and routine services that support long-term health. What is most useful can vary, depending on your age, medical history and individual risk factors. A health care provider is the best person to explain information about options that fit your needs.

Screenings are one way to keep track of your health over time. Your health care provider may discuss checking you for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, certain cancers, osteoporosis and other health conditions. Changes in vision, hearing or mood may also be identified with screenings. Finding concerns early can help start a conversation about possible next steps.

Vaccines can also play a role in preventive care. Our immune systems change as we get older, which can influence how the body responds to infections. A health care provider can explain which vaccines may be appropriate based on your health history and risk factors.

Preventive care is not limited to medical appointments. Simple habits can

help you stay engaged in your care.

These can include scheduling yearly check ins, keeping a personal health calendar, taking medications as prescribed, and noticing changes in how you feel.

These habits can also help you share clearer information with your health care provider.

Preventive care works best when it is part of an ongoing routine rather than a one-time visit. Regular checkups, open communication and awareness of changes in your health can all support long-term well-being.

The information in this article is general and should not replace medical advice. If you are unsure about which screenings or vaccines may be relevant, a health care provider can help review options. To make your medical appointment easier and more productive, write down your questions and bring a current medication list. Staying informed and taking small steps over time can help you better maintain good health, independence and quality of life as you age.

Janai Johnson is the Multimedia Communications Specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.

GEOGRAPHY LESSON

Geography lesson

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By Neil Manausa

CREATORS NEWS SERVICE

ACROSS 1 Latest fad 6 Circle dance, in Acre 10 Shock 14 Rider in a rodeo 15 Spirit 16 Tiny opening 17 City on the Penobscot River 19 Bones of the pelvis 20 Late dancer Charisse 21 Do some mending 22 Unpretentious 24 Ernie’s pal 25 Cast a ballot 26 Personify 29 Holds the reins 32 Vernal or tide 33 Point in orbit 35 Churriana cheer 36 Low 38 Indonesian islands 39 Old-time actress Ada 41 Military learning inst.

42 Lie in wait 45 Martin, to the Rat Pack 46 Sessions 48 Some stadiums 50 Mad as could be

51 Standing with the military 52 Perseus’ quest 54 Funny bunny 55 Actress Irving 58 Export from Holland 59 Home of Frito-Lay 62 Eastern potentate 63 CEO 64 Musical Cleo 65 Ancient Spanish kingdom 66 Awful 67 Swiss mathematician

DOWN 1 Gator’s kin 2 Golfer McIlroy 3 Limbless 4 School of Buddhism 5 Eaten away 6 The essential part 7 Actress Lena 8 Operated 9 Windflower 10 Cast-iron frying pan 11 Known as “Glass City” USA 12 Author of “Topaz” 13 Iceless bar drink 18 Heroine of “War and Peace”

23 Playful furbearer 24 Partner of beautiful in a TV title 25 Elle competitor 26 ___ Downs: site of the English Derby 27 A con played with 3 cards 28 The Gem State’s “City of Trees” 29 Stoppers 30 South American grass plain 31 Man of La Mancha 34 Apply plaster 37 Inventor Howe 40 Norse poetry of yore 43 Live 44 Down Under canine 47 Buck-stopping president 49 Cuddle up 51 Part of a pound 52 Chow 53 Selvage 54 Old-time heavyweight champ 55 Angle on a branch 56 Lion’s locks 57 Where the Germans were halted, 1914 60 Half of CXXII 61 ___ de vie: brandy

N E A T } S E N O R } Y S E R

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