JULY 2025
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IN THIS ISSUE
PCA 2.0: OUR NEXT 50 YEARS
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FREE PRODUCE FOR OLDER PHILADELPHIANS
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INVISIBLE DISABILITIES: WHY THEY MATTER
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PCA Supports Independence for Older Adults P10
July 2025
Milestones 2
PCA 2.0: Our Next 50 Years
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.
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 2025 Glenn D. Bryan, Chair Louis G. Colbert, Co-Chair Check us out online: pcaCares.org/ Jaqueline S. Zinn, Ph.D., Secretary Milestones Denise Adamucci, Treasurer Satya B. Verma, O.D., Immediate Past Editorial & Distribution: Chair Alicia M. Colombo Cheryl Croxton Patricia Canela-Duckett Sandra McNally Norma D. Thomas, DSW Sharlene Waller
215-765-9000, ext. 5081 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. ©2025 Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. All rights reserved.
By Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP PCA President & CEO
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) grounds our work in connection. Linking older adults to the resources, support and community they need to thrive is always on our minds. As we step into our next chapter, PCA 2.0, we are taking purposeful steps to evolve how we serve Philadelphia’s aging population and meet the growing complexity of their needs. The past five decades have shaped PCA into a trusted leader and community partner. Our foundation is strong. But today, we face new challenges that need fresh solutions. Older adults live longer and have different backgrounds, experiences and care needs. Funding structures are shifting. Expectations around aging are changing. To stay responsive, we must reimagine how we work — and with whom.
At PCA, we’re working in new and better ways. That means using technology more effectively, building stronger partnerships and finding different ways to fund our work. We’re focusing on programs that show real results and make it easier for people to get services. We’re also finding ways to make our work more efficient and to give our staff the support they need. How we work matters as much as what we do. We know this evolution won’t happen overnight. It requires careful planning, ongoing community input, and a strong commitment to doing things differently when needed. We are listening to what older adults are telling us. We are learning from data and real-world experience. And we are embracing change with both optimism and urgency. Older adults will remain a central lens (Continued on page 4)
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July 2025
(Continued from page 2)
for all our planning. We are deepening our understanding of the barriers older adults face – whether geographic, cultural, digital or economic – and adapting our services to reduce those gaps. We are also elevating the voices of those we serve, ensuring that decisions reflect the lived experiences of older Philadelphians. Through our Area Plan, PCA lays a clear roadmap: sharpen our focus on core programming under the Older Americans Act and expand access to home- and community-based supports. We will also increase resources for caregivers and explore innovative partnerships with medical providers, nonprofits and city systems. Our vision for PCA 2.0 is simple: a more connected, equitable and responsive future for aging in Philadelphia. That means moving beyond traditional models and imagining aging as a period not of decline but of potential. Aging is a time to stay engaged, supported and empowered. We are grateful for the trust and collaboration of our community, partners and staff. Together, we are building the next era of aging services; one that is grounded in our mission but unafraid to transform in pursuit of greater impact.
OUR FIRST 50 YEARS: NUMBERS OF IMPACT Since 1973, older Philadelphians and adults with disabilities have sought PCA’s experience and expertise in aging services to meet their needs. In our first 50 years, PCA has achieved these milestones:
43 million
nutritious meals provided to older adults through PCA’s home-delivered and communitybased meal programs.
5 million
rides sponsored by PCA for older adults through partnership with SEPTA.
3+ million
callers provided with information, assistance, scheduling assessments and connections to programs through PCA’s Helpline.
2+ million
hours of companionship and assistance provided to adults who are homebound through the Senior Companion Program.
1 million
for long-term care conducted.
initial and follow-up assessments
In PCA’s next 50 years, we will innovate, collaborate and strategize to surpass these milestones and achieve new ones. For more information about PCA’s programs and services or to read PCA’s 2025-26 State of the Agency Report, go to www. pcaCares.org.
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July 2025
Older Philadelphians can get $25 in produce vouchers from PCA
By Bill Conallen The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is back in 2025! This program helps older adults buy fresh Pennsylvania-grown fruits and vegetables. It also supports local farmers. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is now distributing SFMNP produce vouchers. The vouches are available to incomeeligible Philadelphians, age 60plus. Those who qualify can receive $25 in produce vouchers. These vouchers can be used to purchase Pennsylvania-grown produce directly from participating farmers. The vouchers must be redeemed by Nov. 30. Getting the vouchers is easy.
Older adults can pick them up in person at PCA, located at 642 N. Broad St. Distribution hours are Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The vouchers are also available at select senior community centers in Philadelphia. If you can’t go in person, you can request vouchers by mail starting in early August. Vouchers are available while supplies last. “This program has significantly improved the health and well-being of older adults,” said Bea Winn, PCA’s assistant director of health and nutrition. “It not only supports nutrition and wellness but also benefits local farmers and strengthens community connections.” The program also has a broader impact. “SFMNP empowers old-
er Philadelphians to make healthy choices while stretching their food budgets,” Winn said. “Access to fresh produce should never be a luxury — it’s a necessity for good health.” As people get older, eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet becomes even more important. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. This supports immune function, bone health and cognitive clarity. Proper nutrition improves energy, mobility and quality of life. Eating a variety of fresh produce also helps reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. These conditions largely affect older adults.
For many older adults on fixed incomes, access to fresh, healthy food can be a challenge. Programs, like SFMNP, help fill this gap. The vouchers make it easier for older adults to afford the fruits and vegetables they need to stay healthy and independent. Joe Kane, of South Philadelphia, appreciates the program. He picked up the produce vouchers in his neighborhood at the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center. “This really helps people like me,” he said. “I can eat better without worrying about the cost, and I like buying from local farmers. It’s good for everyone.” The program helps Pennsylvania farmers by giving them more customers and income. Shopping at farmers markets keeps money in the community and supports small farms. PCA encourages all eligible older adults to take part in the SFMNP. You can enjoy fresh, local produce, including berries, apples, greens and corn. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The program received less funding than last year. PCA expects to distribute nearly 19,000 sets of vouchers this sum mer. To learn more about the produce voucher program, including additional distribution sites, call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 or visit pcaCares.org. Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.
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July 2025
Recipe Box
Fresh beets and cucumber combine in cool Summer Borscht
July is prime growing season in Pennsylvania. More than 20 fruits and vegetables are in season this month. The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program will supply you with plenty of fresh produce. (See article on page 5.) This is a great opportunity to try some new recipes.
2 cups cucumber, seeds removed, diced ½ cup chopped scallions, white and green parts 2 tbsp. fresh dill, chopped
Directions: Place the beets in a large pot of boiling salted water. Cook unBorscht is a hearty Eastern European beet soup. It’s traditional- covered until the beets are tender, 30 to 40 minutes. Remove ly made with beets, potatoes, cabbage, garlic and seasonings. the beets to a bowl with a slotted spoon. Set aside to cool. This lighter version is made with cucumbers and served cold. Strain 1 ½ cups of beet cooking liquid through a fine sieve into Summer Borscht a large bowl. Allow the liquid to cool. Then whisk in the chicken stock, sour cream, yogurt, sugar, lemon juice, vinegar, salt and Ingredients: pepper. 5 medium fresh beets (about 2 lbs. without tops) 1 tbsp. Kosher salt Peel the cooled beets. You can use a small paring knife or rub 2 cups chicken stock the skins off with your hands. Cut the beats into ¼-inch dice. 16 ozs. sour cream, plus extra for serving Add the diced beets, diced cucumber, scallions and dill to the ½ cup plain yogurt soup liquid. Cover with plastic wrap. Put in the refrigerator for at ¼ cup sugar least 4 hours or overnight. Season to taste and serve cold. Add 2 tbsp. lemon juice, freshly squeezed a dollop of sour cream and a sprig of fresh dill to each bowl, if 2 tsp. Champagne vinegar or apple cider vinegar desired. 1 ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper Source: FoodNetwork.com
ASK SABATINA “What is a will?” A will is a legal document that describes how you would like your property and other assets to be distributed after your death. When you make a will, you can also use it to nominate guardians for your children, dependents, or pets.
Scan QR Code to visit our website phila.gov/wills
REGISTER OF WILLS JOHN P. SABATINA, ESQ.
CITY HALL ROOM 180 | 215-686-6250 | @PHLROW
July 2025
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July 2025
Send your calendar items two months in advance to: MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org Questions? Call 215-765-9000, ext. 5081.
Events
JULY 4 INDEPENDENCE DAY
JULY 10 OLDER ADULT COFFEE & TEA TIME
JULY 17 POETRY CLASS
JULY 11 CHAIR ZUMBA
JULY 18 PINOCHLE
The first Thursday of the month, a different agency will provide information & resources relevant to older adults, in an informal atmosphere. 2 p.m. Lucien E. Blackwell Library. 215-685-7431 | Free
Get moving to a lively mix of music & energizing exercises designed to keep you fit. 9:30 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia. 215-698-7300 | Free
JULY 5 OLDER ADULT WRITING CLUB
JULY 12 WALKING CLUB
Bring your work & write alongside others Get active while enjoying local scenery or chat about your inspiration & wrting & relieving stress. 10 a.m. Cobbs Creek struggles. Noon. Walnut Street West Library. Library. 215-685-1973 215-685-7671 | Free
JULY 8 ENHANCE FITNESS
JULY 15 CARD GAME HOUR
Discover the joy of self-expression, This engaging & interactive class is designed for older adults who want to explore the art of poetry. Beginners welcome. 10:30 a.m. Center in the Park. 215-848-772 | Free
Sharpen your mind & enjoy friendly competition. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your skills, this class will guide you through the rules, strategies & techniques. 1 p.m. Journey’s Way. 215-487-1750 | Free
JULY 19 BOARD GAME CAFE
Socialize, make new friends & have fun. Bring your favorite board games or enjoy one of the many available. 2 p.m. Falls of Schuylkill Library. 215-685-2093 | Free
Play any card game you would like with This low-impact, full-body workout is other center members. Cards are provided. designed to help older adults improve Noon. Lutheran Settlement House. 215strength, flexibility & mobility. It also boosts 426-8610 | Free overall health & well-being. 10 a.m. Center in the Park. 215-848-772 | Free
JULY 9 COMPUTER BASICS CLASS
JULY 16 BINGO
10 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday & Friday. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny. 267Learn how to use the internet & send email 286-1455 | $0.10/board; 6 board minimum using a computer, tablet or smartphone. 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny. 267-286-1455 | $2
JULY 21 MAT YOGA
This class is a blend of physical poses, breathwork & meditation. It’s designed to help people become more in touch with their bodies. 4 p.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-426-8610 | Free
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JULY 24 ART CLASS
Participants will learn a variety of mediums, including painting, watercolors, papermache, sketching & collage. 11 a.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-426-8610 | Free
July 2025
FREE CULTURAL EVENTS THIS SUMMER & FALL The PECO Multicultural Series celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2025! Celebrate Philadelphia’s diversity with a series of cultural festivals. Events are free, open to the public & family friendly. For more information: 215-922-2FUN | www. DelawareRiverWaterfront.com
JULY 25 LINE DANCE CLASS
Move, groove & have fun. Beginners welcome. 9:30 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215-685-2715 | Free
JULY 29 QUILTING CLASS
Tap into your creativity & explore the rich tradition of quilting. This engaging & hands-on class offers a welcoming space to develop skills. Noon. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215-685-2715 | Free
JULY 31 BOOM MUSCLE CLASS
Have fun doing athletic-based exercises that improve upper body conditioning. Move through muscle-conditioning blocks & activity-specific drills to improve strength & functional skill. 10:45 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia. 215-698-7300 | Free
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ACANA African Festival: Aug. 3 from 2-8 p.m. @ Cherry Street Pier
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Festival of India: Aug. 16 from 12-7 p.m. @ Cherry Street Pier
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Caribbean Festival: Aug. 17 from 12-8 p.m. @ Cherry Street Pier
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Brazilian Day Philadelphia: Sept. 7 from 1-7 p.m. @ Spruce Street Harbor Park
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Mexican Independence Day Festival: Sept. 14 from 2-8 p.m. @ Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest
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We are the Seeds: Celebration of contemporary Indigenous arts, cultures & community. More than 40 tribal nations will be represented. Sept. 20 from 12-9 p.m. & Sept. 21 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. @ Cherry Street Pier
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Taste of the Philippines: Oct. 25 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. @ Cherry Street Pier
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July 2025
I AM PCA: Marialana Crispin, PCA’s director of Long-Term Care Options
By Alicia M. Colombo Marialana Crispin began her college studies in criminal justice to become a lawyer. Then, she encountered a social worker who inspired a change. “At the time, my mother was in her 50s and going through cancer treatment,” Crispin says. “Mom had a great social worker who connected her to a bunch of resources. We would not have been privy to this information without that support. It was a great help to my mother, but also to me, as her caregiver. I changed my education and career direction because of that experience.” Crispin went on to earn her Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. While there, she completed an internship at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). This care management internship was the start of her social work career. “My first job was in a nursing home,” she says. “I’ve always worked with older adults. That’s the population I enjoy working with the most.”
Over the next 16 years, Crispin moved up the ranks within PCA’s Long-Term Care OPTIONS Department. She was recently promoted to OPTIONS director. She now oversees more than 50 employees and more than 4,700 older adult consumers. Crispin says the scope of her work has changed as her career progressed. But the goal has always remained the same. Support healthy aging by connecting older adults to vital services and resources. “The services PCA provides allow people to age in place,” she says. “We help to keep them independent in their homes. Home modifications allow people to safely move between floors and leave the home.” There’s a lot of food insecurity among older adults, especially in Philadelphia. PCA’s Home-delivered Meals help older adults who can’t get out to shop for groceries or prepare meals. “For many older Philadelphians, it’s often a choice between buying food or paying a bill,” Crispin says. “The number of meals that PCA serves has grown significantly since the COVID pandemic.” PCA’s care managers meet with older adults and their families to coordinate services. These include personal care, emergency response systems and medical equipment. “I remember a situation with a care manager who really went above and beyond,” Crispin recalls. “It’s always stayed with me.” An older woman who was homebound and lived alone relied on PCA services for her daily care.
Her family lived out of state, and she could not leave her home without assistance. One day, the personal care agency couldn’t get in touch with her. This was unusual. It was reported to her PCA care manager, who promptly went to the woman’s home. After knocking on the door, faint cries for help could be heard from the doorstep. A call to 911 was made. Emergency personnel entered the home to find the woman had fallen. “She had been laying on the floor for hours,” Crispin says. “This happened on a Friday. She would have been there all weekend if PCA had not quickly intervened.” It’s stories like these that make working at PCA so meaningful. “Starting a family and having my own responsibilities has prepared me for this role,” she says. “It helps to shape the decisions you make. You look at a situation differently when you’re going through the same stressors as that person. It helps you grow in your position and career. If you have lived it, you really understand it.” Caregiver support is as vital to healthy aging as long-term care. Crispin is among the “Sandwich Generation.” These adults are still raising children while caregiving for older relatives. “Now, we are seeing multiple family generations who need care simultaneously,” she says. “Like a mother and son who are both receiving PCA services. With longevity, comes the need for more services to be provided over a longer period of time.” PCA is here to help you every step of the way. Alicia M. Colombo is editor of Milestones.
PCA’s long-term care services support independence
OPTIONS is a program that provides services and supports in a person’s home and community. The OPTIONS Program serves people who are not eligible for Medical Assistance (Medicaid) Long-Term Services and Supports. These can include Community HealthChoices (CHC) or Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) program. OPTIONS helps older adults maintain independence at the highest level of functioning in the community. These services include: • Care management services address each individual’s unique needs. • Personal care support for daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and grooming. • Older adult daily living services. • Home-delivered meals. • Home modifications and accessibility adaptations. • Medical equipment and supplies. The following are required to qualify for the OPTIONS program: • Age 60 or older. • Pennsylvania resident. • U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. • Physical and/or mental challenges that impact daily functioning. For more information about PCA programs or to schedule an assessment for service eligibility, call the PCA Helpline at 215-7659040 or go to www.pcaCares.org
PCA delivers meals to your home! Good nutrition is essential for health at any age. But it is especially important as you grow older. Cooking nutritious meals every day can be a challenge for older Philadelphians. PCA is here to help! PCA’s Home-delivered Meals help older adults and adults with disabilities who: • Struggle to afford balanced meals. • Cannot cook or shop for food. • Need help to prepare meals. These well-balanced meals are monitored for calories, carbohydrates, sodium and essential vitamins. Frozen meals are delivered to participants once a week, with up to seven meals included in the delivery. Hot meals are delivered each weekday to those unable to heat meals for themselves.
To inquire about receiving PCA’s Home-delivered Meal service, call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040.
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July 2025
Jimmy Binns: Motorcyclist and Philadelphia legend with a ‘Rocky’ connection Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police. He spearheads the annual Hero Thrill Show fundraiser. The event pays college tuition for the children of fallen Philadelphia firefighters and police officers.
The beginning of the ride
By Mary Anna Rodabaugh
James “Jimmy” Binns, 85, of South Philadelphia, rides his motorcycle every single day. The fearless lawyer of 60 years may be a true Philadelphia legend. At 33, Binns was elected president of St. Luke’s & Children’s Medical Center in North Philadelphia. From 1980-88, he served as the Pennsylvania Boxing Commissioner. A role he portrayed as himself, opposite Sylvester Stallone, in the 2006 film “Rocky Balboa.” Binns has also won several awards for his philanthropy and leadership. His most notable effort is unwavering support of the Philadelphia Police Department. He has dedicated gun lockers to the Philadelphia Sherrif’s Office. He has raised money to donate 64 motorcycles for the Philadelphia Police Department. Binns is as a lifetime member of the
In the early 2000s, Binns took over a restaurant at 13th and Locust streets. While this was his least favorite venture, it did lead him to his greatest passion. “I became friendly with one of the officers in the 6th district,” Binns said. “We would have tea. He told me Police Officer Daniel J. Faulkner was shot and killed while making a traffic stop at that very corner of 13th and Locust.” Binns reached out to Officer Faulkner’s widow, Maureen, and told her he was a lawyer in Philadelphia. He wanted to put a plaque to dedicate the corner where her husband was murdered. She agreed. Officer Faulkner’s Hero Cop plaque would be the first of 326 such plaques that Binns would create and dedicate. Though his thoughtful memorial efforts, Binns began to meet a lot of police officers. “I met this one inspector around 2004 or 2005,” he said. “I told him that I see cops riding along on motorcycles and asked if he taught them how to ride.” Upon learning the officers were trained to ride in Northeast Philadelphia, Binns asked if they would teach him how to ride. “I started to learn how to ride in
my 60s,” Binns said. He has not come a cop, can I become one?” stopped since. The sheriff replied, “You have to go through the Police Academy.” Along came Rocky That is how Binns, at 73, proved Binns met Slyvester Stallone that age is nothing but a number. during boxing matches in Las Ve- He passed and became a motorcygas. The two developed a friend- cle cop in Darby Township. ship and Stallone offered Binns a Binns purchased his first motorpart in the 2006 movie, “Rocky cycle before his inaugural leaderBalboa.” The timing could not ship of the Hero Thrill Show. “I have been more perfect. saw a picture of the 100th anniPhiladelphia’s Hero Thrill Show versary Harley bike,” Binns said. was in trouble. The organizer at “I wanted it. I stuck it in a bar and the time asked Binns to take it never rode it.” over. It was a last-ditch effort to Today, he owns a 2020 Harley keep the show and its scholarship that he rides every single day. “If fund alive. In the years prior to you don’t ride every day, then Binns becoming the show’s Pres- don’t ride at all,” Binns said. “If ident and CEO, it only attracted you have to think about what you about 50 attendees. However, ev- have to do, it is too late.” erything was about to change. At the conclusion of filming “Rocky III,” the iconic Rocky statue was moved from the Philadelphia Museum of Art to the front of the Spectrum for 16 years. It was Binns who would help get the statue back to the Art Museum at the request of Stallone himself in 2006. In return for this favor, Stallone agreed to serve as the The 70th Annual Hero Thrill Grand Marshall for that year’s Show Hero Thrill Show. Attendance at This year’s Hero Thrill Show the event surpassed 13,000. will take place Saturday, Sept. 20, “This will be my 20th year run- from noon to 5 p.m., at the Wells ning the Hero Thrill Show,” Binns Fargo Center in South Philadelsaid. “Since I took over, I’ve put a phia. Tickets are $15 each or $35 few kids through college.” for families (up to five members). To learn more, call 215-922-4000 Age is just a number or visit HeroThrillShow.org. In 2011, Binns dedicated a Hero Cop plaque in Chester, where he knew a local sheriff. Binns asked Mary Anna Rodabaugh is a writer, editor and writing him, “Buddy, if I ever want to be- coach.
July 2025
Milestones 13
Techniques to reduce chronic stress
By Jay Nachman
Chronic stress can create a cascading effect of medical challenges for older adults. Professor and neuropsychologist Tania Giovannetti, Ph.D., studies psychology and cognition in older adults at Temple University. “Over a lifetime, people who experience a lot of chronic stress that never remits, or only infrequently remits, are at risk for a lot of problems that come along with aging,” she said. Chronic stress can have what some call a “weathering” effect on health. This theory could explain the effects of chronic stress on health, as well as health disparities, Giovannetti said. Certain groups of people may experience chronic stress due to low socio-economic status. “They don’t have the resources to get what they need or they may face discrimination in our society, which is incredibly stressful,” she said. “That kind of chronic stress has been proposed to explain a lot of health problems.” This chronic stress can also speed up aging in bodies. And with aging, people became more
vulnerable to a lot of chronic illnesses. These include arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Psychologically, chronic stress can put older adults in a state of heightened vigilance. This can lead to anxiety disorders. A common thread among different anxiety disorders is extreme and/or persistent fear or stress. These feelings often disrupt healthy functioning in work, school and social relationships. A core reaction to an anxiety disorder is the avoidance of stress. “If you feel that you have too much stress, then you may seek ways of avoiding the stress or that feeling of discomfort,” Giovannetti said. “That avoidance over time can lead to maladaptive responses. Some anxiety disorders arise because the person avoids the experience of stress.” Those responses can affect a person’s everyday functioning or feelings of happiness. Anxiety disorders are highly treatable through behavioral interventions, such as exposure. When a patient faces a fearful situation or thoughts, this breaks the avoidance. For example, a person who has anxiety over needles may avoid having blood drawn. By doing so, the anxiety and fear grows. To treat the disorder, exposure to the fearful situation is coupled with relaxation techniques. A person faces the fear and a psychologist assists them in relaxing in the situation. “They have to experience the stress that they feel,” Giovannetti
said. “Anxiety disorders arise as we avoid experiencing the stress.” Sometimes, the situation that is causing the stress is problematic or can’t be pinpointed. Then, a slightly different behavioral intervention is mindfulness. Exercises train the person to shift focus away from the uncertainty about the future and onto sensations and events in the present. Mindfulness might be best for people who experience: • Generalized anxiety or chronic stress due to hardships with no clear fearful stimulus. • Situations that are challenging and difficult to change. Some medications can help with anxiety. But older adults need to have their medications carefully reviewed by their doctor. This is because some anxiety medications can cause memory impairment. While long-term stress can be harmful, an optimal level of short-term stress can be beneficial. Short-term stress can boost a person’s attention and focus. This allows them to perform at their best and get things done quickly. Without stress, people can get bored and not be fully engaged with their lives. Managing your level of stress can improve your well-being and quality of life. Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.
Letter to the editor: Mindfulness relieves stress The stress article (Milestones, December 2024) hardly covered mindfulness. We are responsible for our thoughts and thus our reactions to the world. Mindfulness teaches awareness of departure from an aware state known as being mindful. It means being in the current moment, rather than worrying about the future or regretting of the past. The key is that practice teaches one to recognize when a departure from a mindful state occurs and to return in a non-critical way to the mindful state. This lowers stress. The practices you mention do not get to the root but rather address the symptoms after the fact. Except to the extent that a healthy body will address health-related stress to some degree. The mind needs attention, too. And it will heal when in the right mode. Kindness, gratefulness, openness and faith can also heal the mind. — Bob Scott, 73, Society Hill Milestones wants to hear from YOU! We welcome your story ideas, feedback and suggestions. (Story-specific comments or questions will be forwarded to the writer.) Submissions of letters or articles for publication must be signed and dated and include your address and phone number. Submission constitutes permission to edit and publish in any form or medium. Send ideas and comments to: Attn: Milestones Editor PCA, 642 N. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19130 Email: milestonesnews@pcaCares.org PCA reserves the right to not publish any submission; receipt may not be acknowledged; and submissions will not be returned.
Milestones 14
July 2025
Invisible and visible disabilities: What are the differences? Why do they matter? • •
Mental health conditions, including PTSD or depression. Neurodevelopmental differences, like autism or learning disabilities.
People with invisible disabilities often face extra challenges with their health and with how others treat them. Because their disability isn’t obvious, others may question or misunderstand their needs. By Sarah Greer
At Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA), we support older adults and adults of all ages with disabilities. These two groups may overlap at times. But they’re not the same. A person can have a disability at any point in life — at birth, after an illness or injury, or as they age. That’s why PCA is committed to helping the disability community across every stage of life. When people think of disabilities, they often picture things you can see. These include a person using a wheelchair, cane or service dog. But not all disabilities are visible. Many people live with disabilities that aren’t obvious to others. But these disabilities still affect their daily lives in big ways.
A look back: How disability has been misunderstood
For a long time, society didn’t fully understand disabilities. People with disabilities were often left out or treated unfairly. Visible disabilities — ones you can see —
were usually the only ones that got attention in laws or services. People with invisible disabilities were often ignored or doubted. Today, thanks to advocacy and research, we know that disability is deeper than what we can see. It’s about how someone’s body or mind works. And, that can include things we don’t always notice right away.
Why it matters
To create a truly inclusive society, we need to understand the full range of disabilities. It’s not just about ramps or special parking spaces. It’s about respect, kindness and making sure everyone can participate – even if their challenges aren’t visible. It’s also important to know that disability looks different for every person. What affects one person may not affect another. Many peoWhat are visible disabilities? Visible disabilities are easier to ple live with more than one dissee. These might include someone ability at the same time. using a walker, having a prosthetic limb or showing signs of a skin Moving beyond assumptions Instead of guessing what somecondition. Because these disabilities are noticeable, people often one can or cannot do by how they understand that help or changes look, it’s better to listen and create spaces where everyone feels welmay be needed. come. The words we use matter, What are invisible disabilities? too. Terms like “chronic illness” Invisible disabilities are harder or simply “disability” help show to notice but still have a big im- that there are many ways to experience life with a disability. pact. They can include: • Chronic illnesses, such as diaAdvocating for a more inclusive betes or lupus. • Brain and nerve conditions, future Disability rights have come a including epilepsy or multiple long way. The Americans with sclerosis.
Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 protects many rights for people with disabilities. But there are still challenges. This is especially true for people with invisible disabilities who may struggle to get the help and understanding they need. By learning about both visible and invisible disabilities, we can help break down stereotypes and fight stigma. This helps to build a world where everyone’s abilities are respected and valued — whether we can see them or not. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) provides free person-centered counseling to connect adults with disabilities and older adults to public benefits and private resources. A trained counselor helps to identify long-term services and supports available in the community and to provide guidance to help secure these services. To schedule a person-centered counseling appointment, call the PCA Helpline at 215-7659040. Sarah Greer is the communications manager at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA).
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July 2025
Milestones 15
Health Brief
Crossword
BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month
By Janai Johnson
other communities of color. These include Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander and Native American. Stigma and fear of judgement can also prevent people from seeking help for mental illness. Respectful and inclusive care matters. Providers must listen and respond with understanding. This values a person’s identity, culture, language, religion and lived experiences. When people feel safe and respected, they’re more likely to seek help and continue receiving the care they need. Mental health is essential to complete health and well-being. Everyone deserves access to support that is available, welcoming and trusted. Let this month serve as a reminder to learn, listen and advocate for mental health equity.
July spotlights the importance of mental health in Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) communities. The observance was established in 2008 to honor author, teacher and mental health advocate Bebe Moore Campbell. She worked to reduce stigma and improve access to mental health care in underserved communities. Mental health refers to our emotional and psychological well-being. Mental illness includes conditions that can affect mood, thinking or actions. Unfortunately, all Americans do not have equal access to mental health care and support. People who identify as BIPOC often face barriers to mental health resources, including: • Discrimination. • Lack of insurance. • Language differences. Limited proIf you or someone you know is vider availability. struggling, free and confidential • Mistrust of the health care system. support is available 24/7. Contact the national Suicide and Crisis LifeAccording to the National Alliance line by calling or texting 988. on Mental Illness, only one in three Black adults who need mental health Janai Johnson is the multimedia communications specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). care receive it. Similar gaps exist in
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