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
• Home repairs & modifications
• Information & referral
• Legal services
• Ombudsman services
• Protective services
• Senior centers
• Transportation
• Veteran-directed care
Report suspected elder abuse 24/7 to the PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040.
For general inquiries about PCA or aging services, email AskHelpline@pcaCares.org or call 215-765-9040.
Published by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP
President and CEO
PCA Board of Directors 2026
Glenn D. Bryan, Chair
Louis G. Colbert, Co-Chair
Jaqueline S. Zinn, Ph.D., Secretary
Denise Adamucci, Treasurer
Satya B. Verma, O.D., Immediate Past Chair
Cheryl Croxton
Patricia Canela-Duckett
Lynette Killen
Sandra McNally
Norma D. Thomas, DSW
Sharlene Waller
Arthur E. Helfand, DPM, Board Chair Emeritus
Milestones is published monthly and distributed at more than 800 locations throughout Philadelphia.
Check us out online: pcaCares.org
Editorial & Distribution: Alicia M. Colombo 267-507-2168 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.
Connect, create & contribute
By Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP PCA President & CEO
Spring is a season to reconnect, try something new, and stay active in our communities. We see this every day at PCA. One morning at a local senior center, a group of older adults gathered to share their paintings. Some were trying this for the first time, while others were reliving an old hobby. What stood out was not just artwork, but the genuine laughter, conversation and connection that filled the room.
This is what we aim to support through our community programs and PCA’s network of senior centers. We make sure everyone is engaged, builds relationships and stays informed about what is happening in their community.
Our programs bring people together for conversation, friendship and shared experiences. These gatherings bring a sense of belonging. Many older adults who participate let us know they look forward to these moments and being part of a supportive community.
PCA connects older adults to local senior centers where they can explore personal growth and creativity. Class-
es include painting, writing, music and movement. With a variety of activities, you have the chance to try something new or rediscover old skills. Older adults leave with more confidence, a sense of purpose and new skills.
Just as important, older adults contribute in meaningful ways. You can share knowledge, time and experience by leading activities, mentoring or volunteering. This can include helping at one of our senior centers, supporting a neighbor or sharing a talent.
At PCA, our role is to connect older adults to these opportunities. By doing so, we ensure they stay connected and remain an active and valued part of our community.
We are grateful to our community for making this work possible. With your support, PCA will continue to strengthen these connections. Together, we can make Philadelphia a city where older adults stay active, involved and supported.
I invite you to explore activities, share your skills and get involved. To find a senior center near you, call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 or visit www.pcaCares.org/senior-centers.
Creativity blooms with age in PCA’s Celebrate Arts & Aging exhibition
seen.
Creative expression can offer older adults an outlet for reflection, connection and joy. It also helps to reduce the isolation that so often shadows later life. In that sense, Celebrate Arts & Aging is not only an exhibition. It is also an affirmation — of voice, identity and continued possibility.
“We believe that age should never limit a person’s ability to express themselves creatively,” said Michael Drzik, PCA’s special events manager. “Celebrate Arts & Aging gives older adults an opportunity to showcase their talents and connect with others. It reminds us all that creativity can flourish at every stage of life.”
PCA President and CEO Najja R.
Orr said the exhibition continues to push back against narrow assumptions about aging and who older adults are.
“Older adults have extraordinary stories to tell,” Orr said. “Celebrate Arts & Aging gives them a canvas, literally and figuratively, to share those experiences. This exhibition is a celebration of imagination, resilience and the beauty that exists in every generation.”
Among the artists featured this year is Russell Williams, 69, of Philadelphia. He will serve as PCA’s signature artist for the 2026 exhibition. Williams’ oil-on-canvas painting, “Brilliant in Blue,” highlights the show’s larger message: Creativity deepens with experience. Art can become a way of
By Bill Conallen
Every spring, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) offers a public reminder that creativity does not retire.
PCA’s 24th annual Celebrate Arts & Aging exhibition showcases the work of older artists from across the Philadelphia region. Paintings, drawings, prints and photographs turn into something larger than an art show. The exhibition is, in many ways, a statement about aging itself. Later life can represent imagination, growth and self-discovery.
The program highlights the talents of adults age 55 and older during May, in recognition of Older Americans Month.
This year’s exhibition features 140 works of art. Each piece re-
flects a distinct voice and point of view. Some pieces captured beauty in everyday scenes. Others reveal a memory, emotion or personal history. Together, they offer a vivid portrait of older adulthood. It is not a period of slowing down. It is a stage of life still rich with perspective and possibility.
The exhibition will again feature both an online gallery and in-person exhibits across the city. Sites include Center on the Hill, South Philadelphia Older Adult Center and West Philadelphia Senior Community Center. This allows the artwork to reach viewers both digitally and in neighborhood spaces, where the artists’ stories can feel especially close to home.
For many participants, the show is about more than having their work displayed. It is about being
The 2026 signature artwork is “Brilliant in Blue,” an oil painting by Russell Williams, 69.
translating a lifetime of feeling into something others can see.
For Williams, painting is both personal and connective.
“Creating art has given me a meaningful way to reflect on my life, express what matters to me and share a part of myself with others,” Williams said. “Painting allows me to turn my thoughts, memories and emotions into something people can see and feel. Being part of Celebrate Arts & Aging is very special to me because it shows that creativity does not fade with age — it continues to grow, evolve and bring joy, purpose and connection.”
That idea sits at the heart of the exhibition. Year after year, Celebrate Arts & Aging invites the public to reconsider what it means to
grow older. The work on display is not nostalgic or symbolic. It is immediate, alive and deeply individual.
On gallery walls in community spaces across Philadelphia, it makes one thing clear: creativity knows no age.
PCA’s 2026
Celebrate Arts & Aging is sponsored by PECO, Always Best Care Senior Services and Jefferson Health Plans. For information go to, www.pcaCares. org/art.
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
Celebrate & Aging
Art exhibits of works by older adults!
Artwork Exhibits and Receptions:
West Philadelphia Senior Community Center
Artists’ Reception: Wednesday, May 13 at 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Center hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address:1016 N. 41st St.
South Philadelphia Older Adult Center
Artists’ Reception: Thursday, May 21at 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Center hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address:1430 E. Passyunk Ave.
Center on the Hill
Artists’ Reception: Thursday, May 28 at 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Center hours: Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address: 8855 Germantown Ave., behind the Presbyterian Church
To view the entire show: www.pcaCares.org/Art
For sales and more information, please call, 445-456-0741
Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.
Andi DeSouza, “Stacy's Garden”
“Peace Be Still,” an acrylic painting by Ameena Sulayman
Celebrate Older Americans Month: Champion your health
By Alicia M. Colombo
Each May, Older Americans Month recognizes the important contributions of older adults. This is also a good time to enhance programs to support them in the community.
The Administration for Community Living, which leads the observance, provides the following information to encourage community and individual support.
This year’s theme is “Champion Your Health.” It focuses on prevention, wellness and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging. It encourages older adults to take an active role in their health by:
• Advocating for themselves
• Accessing preventive care
• Making informed decisions that support independence
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is your local partner in healthy aging.
“PCA connects older adults in Philadelphia with the resources, programs and services needed to live independently,” stated Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP, President &
CEO of PCA. “Maintaining good health habits, such as eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly and participating in social activities, can help individuals achieve a high quality of life at any age.”
This Older Americans Month, everyone can take steps to encourage healthy aging.
How can community groups, businesses and organizations take part?
• Promote Older Americans Month through newsletters, meetings and social media channels
• Invite people to share stories and reflections on social media channels using #ChampionYourHealth
• Highlight practical tips and trusted resources that support prevention and healthy aging
• Support local programs and events that help older adults stay healthy and active
How can individuals take charge of their health at every age?
• Stay up to date on preventive care and health screenings
• Build and maintain social connections that support emotional well-being
• Choose nutritious, minimally processed foods
• Incorporate regular physical activity to maintain strength and mobility
• Practice daily habits that support mental health and resilience
PCA offers a wide range of health and wellness programs for older adults and caregivers. These include:
• Group fitness classes and exercise equipment at senior community centers
• Chronic disease selfmanagement, workshops for
pain, diabetes and other health conditions
• Falls prevention programs
• Community events that offer health information, screenings and recreation activities
• Healthy meals delivered to older adults’ homes and served at senior centers
For information about programs and services to support older Philadelphians, call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 or go to the website www.pcaCares.org. For more information about Older Americans Month, visit www.acl.gov/oam.
Care for every age, close to home
Roxborough Family Medicine brings together three trusted locations— Philadelphia (ages 16–70+) and Montgomery County’s Primary Care of East Norriton and Suburban Family Medicine (infants to seniors)—offering prevention, chronic care, and patient-focused education.
roxboroughmemorial.com/family-medicine
Alicia M. Colombo is the Editor of Milestones
Celebrate & Aging
Homage to Three Masters of Sculpture - Calder by Alfredo Salvador Pereira
Moody Day in Cape May by Betty Rackus
Violeta by Amy DeFeo
Dark Horse by Bernadette Venier
Going Home by Valerie Gilbert
Spring in the Countryside by Carolyn Do
Sunflower Vase
by Anita Mariani
Upward Bound
by Carol Meingart Cohen
Night Bird by Minerva Delgado
Fall
by Barbara Ann Fields
Fall Splendor #2 by Rebecca Jane Hoenig
Angel Wing by Avelene Jacobs
Events
May 2026
THIS MONTH:
• OLDER AMERICANS MONTH
• ASIAN AMERICAN & PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH
MAY 5
MUSIC THERAPY
Music interventions accomplish individualized goals with a credentialed professional. 9 a.m. Lutheran Settlement House, 1340 Frankford Ave. 215-426-8610 | Free
DAY OF RESPITE, LEARNING & RESTORATION FOR CAREGIVERS
Caregiving workshop includes lunch & parking. 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, 642 N. Broad St. Register: 215-9954372 | Free
MAY 6
BEGINNERS SPANISH CLASS
Learn the basics & practice conversation skills with a bit of Spanish music & culture. 4 p.m. Lutheran Settlement House, 1340 Frankford Ave. 215-426-8610 | Free
MAY 8
OPEN TECH CENTER
Computer lab with instruction available for technology topics, such as iPads, smartphones, & Zoom. 10 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia, 10100 Jamison Ave. 215-698-7300 | Free
MAY 11
CHAIR ZUMBA
Send your calendar items two months in advance to: MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org Questions? Call 267-507-2168.
Friendly competition with other center members. Cards provided. Noon. Lutheran Settlement House, 1340 Frankford Ave. 215-426-8610 | Free
MAY 14
QUILTING CLASS
Welcoming space to develop skills for all levels. Noon. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center, 2100 Cecil B. Moore Ave. 215-685-2715 | Free
MAY 13
PCA’S CELEBRATE ARTS & AGING –RECEPTION: WEST PHILLY
Exhibit of work by older adult artists on display weekdays in May, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artists’ reception: 2-4 p.m. West Philadelphia Senior Community Center, 1016 N. 41st St. Presenting sponsor: PECO. 445-456-0741 | Free
MAY 14
POETRY CLASS
Engaging & interactive class for all levels. 10:30 a.m. Center in the Park. 5818 Germantown Ave. 215-848-772 | Free
MAY 15
LINE DANCE CLASS
Move, groove & have fun in energetic class for all levels. 9:30 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center, 2100 Cecil B. Moore Ave. 215685-2715 | Free
MAY 19
YOGA
Stretch while sitting & standing to ease body, mind & spirit. 9:30 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia, 10100 Jamison Ave. 215-6987300 | Free
MAY 20
BINGO
10 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny, 1900 W. Allegheny Ave. 267-286-1455 | $0.10 per board (minimum 6)
MAY 21
PCA’S CELEBRATE ARTS & AGING –RECEPTION: SOUTH PHILLY
Exhibit of work by older adult artists on display weekdays in May, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artists’ reception: 2-4 p.m. South Philadelphia Older Adult Center, 1430 E. Passyunk Ave. Presenting sponsor: PECO. 445-456-0741 | Free
“Portrait of Beauty” by Ruby Peterson
“Walking by Penn’s Landing” by Jose Dominguez
MAY 26
ENHANCE FITNESS
Revitalizing exercise class for older adults. Low-impact, full-body workout improves strength, flexibility, mobility & overall health. 9 a.m. Center in the Park, 5818 Germantown Ave. 215-848-772 | Free
MAY 27
TOTAL FITNESS CLASS
Exercise while standing & sitting with light, hand-held equipment, such as weights & fitness balls. 10:30 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny, 1900 W. Allegheny Ave. 267-286-1455 | $1
MAY 28
PCA’S CELEBRATE ARTS & AGING –
RECEPTION: CHESTNUT HILL
Exhibit of work by older adult artists on display weekdays in May, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artists’ reception: 2-4 p.m. Center on the Hill, 8855 Germantown Ave. Presenting sponsor: PECO. 445-4560741 | Free
Philadanco founder Joan Myers Brown to celebrate 95th birthday
By Jay Nachman
In 1931, Black women were not allowed to ride a bus or trolley. So, Joan Myers Brown’s mother had to walk a mile from her home at 15th and Christian streets to Graduate Hospital at 19th and Lombard streets to give birth to her. Myers Brown later went to segregated schools until she attended West Philadelphia High School.
Myers Brown persevered through life’s obstacles to found The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts in 1960 and the much-lauded Philadelphia Dance Company (Philadanco) in 1970.
and global dance communities.”
She now lives in West Philadelphia, near Philadanco’s home, and is the mother of three daughters and six grandchildren. In December, Myers Brown will turn 95. At the opening night of Philadanco’s concert series, called “For The Love of Philly,” a birthday celebration will be held in her honor.
Myers Brown was introduced to dance while in high school by a white teacher who had been a member of the Philadelphia Ballet Company. The teacher invited Myers Brown to join a ballet club. She was the only Black dancer in the club and wasn’t treated nicely. “I felt the challenge,” Myers Brown said. “I fell in love with dance and that was it.”
After high school, Myers Brown received a grant from the Philadelphia Cotillion Society to study at the Katherine Dunham School in New York. “For the first time, I saw nothing but Black people dancing,” she said. Dunham is known for bringing Black dance and rituals into the Eurocentric American dance world.
MAY 29
GENTLE MOVEMENTS
Class to improve joint health, manage stress & boost circulation with minimal pressure. 10 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center –Avenue of the Arts, 509 S. Broad St. 215-546-5879 | Free
In 2012, Brown received the National Medal of the Arts. In 2013, President Barack Obama honored her at a ceremony that took place at the White House. President Obama cited Brown for carving out “an artistic haven for African American dancers and choreographers to innovate, create and share their unique visions with the national
After studying there, Myers Brown couldn’t find a job with a ballet company. There were no Black dance companies at that time. She began working as a backup dancer in nightclubs for such stars as Cab Calloway, Sammy Davis Jr. and Pearl Bailey. In every city where she worked, she would look for a dance school so she could con-
(Continued on page 12)
“Sudden Showers” by RL Washington
(Continued from page 11)
tinue honing her craft.
“One day I woke up in Boston and thought, ‘I don’t want to do this anymore. I want to teach Black kids what I know. Then, maybe, times will change, and they’ll have an opportunity later in life,’” Myers Brown said. “And that’s been my goal. And I’m still here in Philadelphia with a company.”
Since forming her own dance company, the number of accolades and awards she has received locally, nationally and internationally would fill an entire dance studio.
In 2005, the Kennedy Center honored her as a Master of African American Choreography. In 2009, she received the prestigious Philadelphia Award. Then, November 7, 2010, was declared Joan Myers Brown Living Legacy Day.
In 2019, she received the prestigious New York Dance & Performance Award – The Bessie for Lifetime Achievement. Her generosity, artistry, leadership in choreography, training and mentoring of dancers helped shape American dance for more than six decades. Myers Brown’s work also championed and created spaces for the work of African American choreographers through the formation of seminal organizations, including The International Association of Blacks in Dance.
Her school has been described as the farm team for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Twenty-eight of her dancers have joined the acclaimed dance company. Ailey credits Myers Brown for setting the
level of expertise for his company.
Myers Brown’s favorite dance for her company to perform is Talley Beatty’s “A Rag, a Bone and a Hank of Hair.” She said, “I think that sets the style of the company because we’re doing something that nobody else is doing with ballet training with jazz music and nightclub work.”
While there are more opportunities now for Black dancers, “there’s not an abundance of work for Black dancers,” she said.
Myers Brown, affectionately known as “Aunt Joan” or “JB,” currently serves as Philadanco’s artistic adviser. She still goes into work every morning for a couple hours to oversee four performing companies, two schools and 34 teachers.
Her daughter, Marlisa Brown Swint, runs Philadanco as the managing director. “I’m keeping check on her as she is keeping check on me,” Myers Brown said. “I’m blessed with good health.”
Using person-centered and strengths-based approaches, care management through OPTIONS empowers individuals and their caregivers to make informed decisions and participate fully in the care planning process. We offer a choice of services and available providers to support your highest level of functioning. As your needs change, the care manager can help to add or adjust services to meet your new or emerging needs.
Services and supports available include:
• Respite.
(See page 15 for crossword)
• Personal care.
• Home-delivered meals.
• Home health services.
• Older adult daily living services.
• Durable medical equipment & supplies.
• Accessibility adaptations.
Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.
PCA OPTIONS PROGRAM
Alzheimer’s Association local chapter provides accessible resources
There are more than 489,000 people living with Alzheimer’s disease in Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The tri-state area is also home to more than 809,000 dementia caregivers. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association
provides information and support for this region. The chapter offers many free programs and services. It serves people in the Greater Philadelphia area, the Lehigh Valley, Southern New Jersey and Delaware.
“Reaching, supporting and educating those across Philadelphia — and beyond — who are impacted by dementia and their families is critical,” said Amba Kasongo, director of programs, Alzheimer’s Association Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter. “The diverse population we serve across the Philadelphia area requires us to be nimble and accessible while providing resources and events that are specific to their needs.”
Immediate help
The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 Helpline. Callers can receive emotional support, crisis help, caregiving advice and local resources. The helpline is available in more than 200 languages. Call 1-800-272-3900 to get help.
“The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline remains a top resource — whether you’re in a moment of crisis, planning for the future or anywhere in between,” Kasongo said.
Connecting with others
The chapter offers several types
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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.
Contact us to learn if you or a loved one qualifies. Call 215-339-4747 or visit mercylife.org.
By Mary Anna Rodabaugh
(Continued from page 13)
of support groups for both caregivers and people living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Early-stage support groups are for people who have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. These groups provide a safe space to talk and connect with others. Screening is required before joining.
Caregiver support groups are available for people who care for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia without pay. In these groups, caregivers can share their experiences, receive emotional support and get practical advice from others in similar situations.
Support groups, led by trained facilitators, are offered both virtually and in person. To find a support group near you, visit www.alz.org/ events and select “support groups.” Participants should confirm meeting details with the listed contact. You can also call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-2723900 for assistance.
Every community is affected by Alzheimer’s differently. The association also offers special research efforts and resources for Black, Native American and LGBTQ+ individuals living with the disease.
“In Philadelphia, we host an annual Black and African American Caregiver Symposium, a no-cost event for caregivers. It covers topics such as caregiver identity and health; communicating effectively with family, friends and health care professionals; and legal planning, among others,” Kasongo said. “Building community and partnering with local leaders and
organizations is key to earning trust and better serving those who need us most.”
People can also connect through ALZConnected, a free online community. Members can ask questions, share experiences and support one another. Learn more at www.alzconnected.org.
ALZNavigator
Receiving an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming. ALZNavigator helps people figure out what to do next by creating a personalized action plan. After answering a few questions, users receive suggestions for local resources, educational programs, and helpful articles. Topics often include financial planning and home safety. The plan can be viewed online or printed.
More resources
The Alzheimer’s Association offers many educational tools. These include articles, weekly tips, webinars and virtual brain tours. These are available through the Community Resource Finder. Caregivers can also take part in the Empowered Caregiver education program. This helps them learn how to manage the challenges of caregiving. Caregivers can sign up for individual classes or complete the full series. Learn more at www.alz.org/help-support/ resources.
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.
Mary Anna Rodabaugh is a writer, editor and writing coach.
Recognize the symptoms of arthritis
Sources: Arthritis Foundation | Johns Hopkins Medicine
Arthritis is a condition that affects the body’s joints, including knees, hips, hands and shoulders. Recognizing early signs of arthritis allows you to connect early with resources. Understanding changes in your body will help you manage arthritis symptoms and maintain a good quality of life.
For many people, symptoms develop gradually. Joint discomfort is common. You may feel soreness or tenderness. Joint stiffness is another common symptom. This may be more noticeable in the morning or after sitting for long periods of time. Some people may also experience swelling or warmth in their joints. This can make daily activities more challenging. Paying attention to when symptoms occur can help you better understand how arthritis affects your daily routine.
Staying active can support symptom management. Light physical activities, such as walking, stretching and chair yoga, may help to promote flexibility and joint movement. Many gyms and
senior community centers offer exercise programs designed specifically for older adults. These programs can be helpful in staying active and socializing.
Making small adjustments in your daily routine can also make a difference. The following tips may help relieve joint discomfort and keep you motivated to remain active:
• Wear supportive shoes
• Take regular breaks during physical activity
• Plan activities at times when symptoms are less bothersome
Discussing your symptoms with a health care professional can help you understand the condition and how it can be managed. Staying connected to community programs and support resources can also help you remain active, engaged and confident in your daily routines.
For more information, contact the Arthritis Foundation at 1-800-283-7800 or www.arthritis.org.
