Issuu

NOVEMBER 2026 IN THIS ISSUE

UTLITY RESOURCES KEEP YOU WARM AT HOME

FREE

CARE CONNECTS US

TASTY, DIABETES-FRIENDLY RECIPES FOR FALL

P12

TECHNOLOGY SUPPORTS INDEPENDENT LIVING

P14

November is National Family Caregivers Month

Milestones 2

November 2026

Caregiving often happens quietly

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 PCA Board of Directors 2026 Louis G. Colbert, Chair Jaqueline S. Zinn, Ph.D., Secretary Denise Adamucci, Treasurer Satya B. Verma, O.D., Past Chair Cheryl Croxton Patricia Canela-Duckett Lynette Killen Norma D. Thomas, DSW Sharlene Waller

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. ©2026 Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. All rights reserved.

connect them with the right resources can help caregivers manage some of these day-to-day needs. Having my mother join me at PCA’s At PCA, our Caregiver Support ProFall Fundraiser made the evening par- gram connects caregivers that assist their ticularly special. It reminded me how older adult loved ones with resources meaningful it is to share important mo- based on their needs. Support can include ments with the people who matter most. training, financial assistance and other In some moments, we share lasting mem- services that provide relief. PCA also ofories; in others, we offer love, care and fers resources for older relatives who are support. A spouse helps with medications raising younger family members, as well and appointments. A daughter checks in as information about adult day services every morning before going to work. A and other caregiver programs. grandson picks up groceries on the way Support does not always have to come home. A neighbor makes a phone call or from a formal program. Family members, stops by to make sure someone is doing friends and neighbors can also make a well. difference. Picking up groceries, running These acts of care may not come with an errand, making a phone call or simply a paycheck or a formal job title, but they checking in can give a caregiver more are an important part of how many older time and make some daily tasks easier. adults receive support. Family members, When we support unpaid caregivers, friends and neighbors may help with we also support the older adults who rely transportation, meals, household tasks, on them. Caregivers help older adults personal care or appointments. Some manage daily tasks, stay connected to also provide emotional support and com- their communities and remain as indepanionship. pendent as possible. As these responsibilities become part If you or someone you know provides of daily life, caregivers may need help unpaid care for an older adult, PCA can understanding available services, paying help you find resources and support. Confor certain expenses, or finding time to tact the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 care for their own health and well-being. or visit www.pcaCares.org/caregivers. Having someone to answer questions and By Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP PCA President & CEO

Community Health Choices Provider serving Philadelphia, Montgomery, Lower Bucks, Delaware Counties

senior services We can assist you with the Medicaid Waiver Enrollment process. We can assist you in obtaining a Visiting Physician to come to your home. Family or Friends can be your caregiver. Able to communicate in multiple languages. Affordable private pay rates. Always Best Care Senior Services provides warm, compassionate, and professional care in the comfort of your home so you can have the quality of life you deserve! Call us Today! • Bathing / Grooming • Dressing • Laundry • Light Housekeeping • Meal Preparation • Hourly and Respite Care • Weekends and Holidays

• Escort to appointments • Errands / Grocery Shopping • Companionship • Medication Reminders • Incontinence Care • Skilled Nursing Services • Physical & Occupational Therapy

For more information call anytime 24/7 (267) 909-9248 or visit www.TeamGreeneABC.com

Milestones 4

November 2026

PCA Caregiver Support Program helps older adults care for loved ones Depending on a person’s needs, the program may also help pay for: • Medical supplies • Home safety changes, such as grab bars or stair chairs • Personal care services • Adult day programs • Emotional, legal or financial counseling PCA’s care managers work directly with caregivers to: • Evaluate their needs and goals • Develop individualized support plans • Connect them with appropriate services Gail Rose, 68, is the caregiver for her husband of 27 years, Willie Rose, 74. • Monitor their progress they have what they need. Then By Bill Conallen For Gail, caring for her husband you realize how much responsibiliFor thousands of people in Philais a commitment built over many ty you’ve taken on.” delphia, caring for an older family Philadelphia Corporation for Ag- years. Like many spousal caregivmember or friend is part of daily ing’s (PCA’s) Caregiver Support ers, she has learned that caregiving life. Caregivers help loved ones Program provides information, involves more than daily tasks. It stay safe and comfortable at home. services and support. The program also means adjusting to changing They may prepare meals, schedule needs, coordinating services and helps reduce caregiver stress. doctor visits and help with personal “Caregivers give so much of providing ongoing support for the care. themselves to make sure their loved person who has shared much of her For older adults who are caregivones are safe, healthy and support- life. ers, these duties can create physi“There are so many things to ed,” said Cheryl Clark, director of cal, emotional and financial chalPCA’s Caregiver Support Program. think about when you’re caring lenges. “Our goal is to make sure caregiv- for someone,” Rose said. “SomeGail Rose, 68, knows those chalers know they have support, too, times you just need somebody who lenges well. She cares for her husand that there are resources avail- knows what resources are available band, Willie Rose, 74. Over their able to help make their responsibil- and can help you figure out where 27-year marriage, caregiving has to start.” ities more manageable.” become a regular part of their lives. Older caregivers may face extra Caregiver Support Program can Gail works hard to meet her huschallenges. They are often manprovide the following services: band’s needs while also taking care aging their own health needs, ap• Care management of her own health. pointments and limitations while • Education and training “You don’t always put a name caring for someone else. • Information about resources to it,” Gail said. “You’re helping “As a caregiver, you tend to fo• Help applying for benefits because this is someone you care • Financial assistance with care- cus on the other person first,” Gail about, and you want to make sure said. “But you have to remember giving expenses

that your health matters, too. If you don’t take care of yourself, it becomes harder to take care of someone else.” For Gail and Willie Rose, caregiving is rooted in the life they have built together. While there are difficult days, there are also meaningful moments of companionship and connection. “There are hard days, but there are also good days,” Gail said. “Sometimes it’s sitting together, talking about old memories or just enjoying each other’s company. Those are the moments that stay with you.” Through the Caregiver Support Program, PCA helps caregivers stay informed, connected and supported to make their daily lives easier and more fulfilled. To learn more about PCA’s Caregiver Support Program, including program qualifications, see page 5, call the PCA Helpline at 215-7659040 or visit www.pcaCares.org/ caregivers. Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.

(See page 15 for crossword)

Milestones 6

November 2026

Winter is coming: Utility resources can help keep you warm at home Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

By Alicia M. Colombo When temperatures drop, heating your home can become expensive. Many Philadelphia rowhomes are older and can lose heat easily. Older utility systems can also make it harder to keep energy costs down, especially during the winter when homes rely on gas or oil for heat. The good news is that many programs can help residents pay utility bills and stay warm. You may qualify for more than one program, so it is a good idea to apply for every benefit you are eligible to receive.

Utility company assistance programs

Philadelphia’s three major utilities offer special programs for customers who need help paying their bills. PECO’s Customer Assistance Program includes a Percentage of Income Payment Plan that sets a fixed monthly electric bill based on household income. New participants may also qualify to have past-due balances forgiven. Households must meet

LIHEAP is Pennsylvania’s main heating assistance program. It provides cash grants to help low-income households pay heating bills. People who are in danger of losing heat may also qualify for crisis grants. Grants range from $200 to $1,000, depending on household size, income and fuel type. Payment is sent directly to the utility company or fuel provider. Applications for the 2026-27 LIHEAP season open on Nov. 2. Philadelphia’s LIHEAP Application Center is located at 1163 S. Broad St. income requirements to qualify. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Details: 1-800-494-4000 | www. Details: 215-560-1583 | www. peco.com/assistance pa.gov (Search for “LIHEAP”) The Philadelphia Water Department offers special programs for older adults, low-income households Utility Emergency Services and customers facing financial hard- Fund (UESF) UESF’s Utility Grant Program ship. Its Tiered Assistance Program helps low-income households that (TAP) limits water bills to 2%-4% have received a shutoff notice or of household income for eligible have already had their utility service customers. Payment plans and other disconnected. The program can provide up to assistance options may be available. Details: 215-685-6300 | https:// $1,250 toward electric bills and up to $3,000 toward water bills through water.phila.gov/drops/assistance Philadelphia Gas Works’ (PGW) matching funds from PECO and the Customer Responsibility Program Philadelphia Water Department Details: 215-972-5170 | https:// (CRP) can reduce gas bills by up to 50% for eligible customers with low uesfacts.org/our-programs/utiliincomes. Participants pay a lower ty-grant-program monthly bill and may have past-due Energy Coordinating Agency debt forgiven. PGW also offers budget billing (ECA) and payment assistance for people ECA offers heating system repairs, with special circumstances. These energy-saving services and utility might include medical emergencies assistance. Its 16 Neighborhood or unemployment. Energy Centers can help residents Details: 215-235-1000 | www.PG- with utility bills, home repairs, Works.com/assistance weatherization services and budget

counseling. Details: 215-609-1000 | www.ecaSavesEnergy.org

Emergency Fund for Older Philadelphians

The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) operates an Emergency Fund for older adults facing a financial crisis after other resources have been exhausted. The program may provide a grant of $150 to $300 or up to 100 gallons of heating oil. Eligible older adults must be referred by a social service agency or member of the clergy. Once a referral is received, PCA can often provide assistance quickly. To learn more, call PCA’s Helpline at 215-765-9040 or go to www.pcaCares.org/pcas-emergency-fund. Alicia M. Colombo is the editor of Milestones at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging

You can read Milestones online!

pcaCares.org/milestones

November 2026

Milestones 8

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

Events November 2026

THIS MONTH: • NATIONAL FAMILY CAREGIVERS MONTH   • ELECTION DAY: NOV. 3 • VETERANS DAY: NOV. 11   • THANKSGIVING: NOV. 26

NOVEMBER 4 CHESS CLUB

NOVEMBER 7 SHE SHINES CONFERENCE

Women’s event focused on empowerment, inspiration & opportunities for engagement in a network of Black women. 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. New Covenant Church of Philadelphia, 7500 Germantown Ave. 267-328-4592 | www.SheShinesConference.com | $85$100

NOVEMBER 16 PIANO LESSON CLASS

Develop or refine your musical skills with individual lessons. 12:30 p.m. Center in the Park. 5818 Germantown Ave. 215-8487722 | Free

NOVEMBER 17 MUSIC THERAPY

Uses interventions to help meet personal goals with a credentialed professional. 9 a.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 1340 Blend of physical yoga practice, breathwork Frankford Ave. 215-426-8610 | Free & meditation. 4 p.m. Lutheran Settlement House, 1340 Frankford Ave. 215-426-8610 NOVEMBER 18 | Free

NOVEMBER 9 Noon. Martin Luther King Older Adult MAT YOGA Center, 2100 Cecil B. Moore Ave. 215-6852715 | Free

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS, PROTECT YOUR FUTURE

Learn about Powers of Attorney. Light breakfast & lunch provided. 9 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Drexel Kline Institute of Trial Advocacy, 12th & Chestnut streets. Register: https:// form.jotform.com/262914214139152 | Free

NOVEMBER 18 LUNG CANCER WORKSHOP

Learn about risk factors & screening options. Presented by Temple Fox Chase NOVEMBER 5 Cancer Center. 1 p.m. Philadelphia Senior ENHANCE FITNESS CLASS Instruction available for technology topics, Center – Avenue of the Arts, 509 S. Broad Exercise that combines strength training, such as iPads, cell phones & Zoom. 10 a.m. flexibility & cardio. 12:30 p.m. KleinLife: KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia, 10100 St. 215-546-5879 | Free Northeast Philadelphia, 10100 Jamison Jamison Ave. 215-698-7300 | Free Ave. 215-698-7300 | Free NOVEMBER 18

NOVEMBER 10 OPEN TECH CENTER

NOVEMBER 6 LINE DANCE CLASS

NOVEMBER 12 FITNESS CENTER CLASS

TAP DANCE CLASS

Learn basic steps, rhythms & combinations while building coordination, balance & Learn how to use gym equipment with a Beginners welcome. 9:30 a.m. Martin trained instructor. 11 a.m. Philadelphia confidence. 12:30 p.m. Philadelphia Senior Luther King Older Adult Center. 2100 Cecil Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts. 509 S. Center – Avenue of the Arts. 509 S. Broad St. 215-546-5879 | Free B. Moore Ave. 215-685-2715 | Free Broad St. 215-546-5879 | Free

Milestones 9

NOVEMBER 19 QUILTING CLASS

Learn basic techniques, patterns & stitching with a social connection. Noon. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center, 2100 Cecil B. Moore Ave. 215-685-2715 | Free

November 2026

PCA is Here for You!

NOVEMBER 20 SILVER SNEAKERS

Exercise program for older adults to build strength, flexibility & balance. 8 a.m. Center in the Park. 5818 Germantown Ave. 215-848-7722 | Free

NOVEMBER 23 SING-ALONG

10 a.m. Center in the Park, 5818 Germantown Ave. 215-848-7722 | Free

NOVEMBER 24 THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION

Feast with all the trimmings among friends & entertainment. 11:30 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia, 10100 Jamison Ave. 215-698-7300 | $3 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

NOVEMBER 25 BRIDGE

Card games with friends. 11:30 a.m. Center on the Hill. 8855 Germantown Avenue. 215-247-4654 | $2

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.

NOVEMBER 30 MINDFUL MINIS

Community wellness manager leads short sessions to help manage stress. Includes guided meditation, breathwork, body-scans & discussion. Noon. Lutheran Settlement House, 1340 Frankford Ave. 215-426-8610 | Free

Connect with PCA on social media!

Milestones 10

November 2026

Sleep issues keep many older adults up at night in the brain and the other organs when we sleep,” said Dr. Ritu G. Grewal, a sleep specialist at Jefferson Health. “Everything does slow down. Our breathing slows down. Our heart rate goes down. There are some changes that occur at the hormone level. And all this is really important for overall health.” Studies show that disturbed sleep, insufficient sleep and poor sleep quality can have significant metabolic consequences. For example, she said, “Lack of sleep, just being sleep deprived, can lead spend roughly one-third of their to weight gain and it can lead to By Jay Nachman increased risk for diabetes and lives sleeping. It’s important to get a good “It’s really important because a high blood pressure, so there are night’s sleep. After all, adults lot of physiologic changes occur long-term health consequences.”

Additionally, Grewal said, if someone isn’t getting adequate sleep, they will feel tired and sleepy and that can affect work performance and it can lead to or worsen mood disorders. The National Sleep Foundation website states, “Between the ages of 18 and 64, adults should aim for seven to nine hours of nightly sleep. If you’re older than 65, you may need a little less: seven to eight hours is recommended.” “Unfortunately, many older adults have a harder time sleeping,” Grewal said. There are different stages of sleep during the night: light sleep, deep sleep and REM sleep, an active phase of the sleep cycle when a person’s eyes

Milestones 11

November 2026

dart quickly behind closed lids and vivid dreaming takes place. “As one gets older, that deep sleep that we get in the first third of the night does change and older adults experience more of the lighter stages of sleep from which it is easier to wake up,” Grewal said. Older adults also have other health issues that can impact sleep, explained Grewal, naming arthritis, back pain, heart and breathing issues. Postmenopausal women can experience depression, which can lead to disrupted sleep. Lifestyle changes can also lead to insomnia and restless sleep. Retired older adults may spend more time in bed or take more naps

during the day. Drinking caffeinated drinks close to bedtime can also make it hard to sleep. Lack of exposure to sunlight can also lead to poor sleep quality because it disrupts the body’s circadian, or natural, rhythm. “The one thing that people can control is lifestyle changes,” Grewal said. Activities that stimulate your mind and body are helpful. Avoid taking long naps during the day. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, and getting out of bed when you wake up, can help promote healthy sleep habits. “What we are talking about is really practicing good sleep hygiene and getting a lot of activities

done during the day and especially exposure to sunlight is really important.” Another activity that can contribute to poor sleep quality is scrolling on phones or watching television before bedtime. Grewal advises people to limit their screen time as they get closer to their bedtime. After getting up in the night to, say, use the bathroom, Grewal recommends then doing behaviors that are conducive to going back to sleep. Don’t look at social media or watch television, which makes people wide awake. Another option is to listen to calming sounds, an audiobook, or a podcast. It’s like giving a cue to your

brain and training your brain to go back to sleep and not overthink things, Grewal said. And don’t stress about not sleeping, Grewal said, “because sometimes just trying to sleep and being stressed about it arouses the brain and makes it more difficult to sleep.”

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

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

From empathy to expertise.

Recipe Box

Sweet, savory and diabetes-friendly recipes to enjoy this fall

The autumn harvest brings a colorful bounty that includes apples, winter squash and, of course, pumpkins. You’ll find many choices in the grocery store. Here are a couple recipes that take advantage of seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Sweet Potato Kale Hash

Baked Cinnamon-Stuffed Apples

Ingredients: 2 tsp. olive oil 2 small sweet potatoes, diced 1 small red onion, diced 2 tsp. chili powder ½ tsp. ground cumin ½ tsp. garlic powder ¼ tsp. black pepper ½ pint cherry tomatoes, halved 1 lb. kale, destemmed and chopped into bite-size pieces ¼ cup cotija or feta cheese, crumbled

Ingredients: 4 large apples (McIntosh or Golden Delicious), cored ½ lemon, juiced 6 tbsp. low-calorie brown sugar substitute ¼ cup oatmeal 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 2 tbsp. margarine (trans-fat-free) ¼ cup pecans, finely chopped

Directions: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Drizzle lemon juice over apples.

Add sweet potatoes, onion, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are fork tender, 10-15 minutes. Add kale to the skillet and stir until wilted, 3-4 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and fold in the cherry tomatoes. Divide between serving plates and garnish with cheese.

Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

In a small bowl, mix together remaining ingredients. Stuff each apple with approximately ¼ cup of the oat mixture. Place stuffed apples in an oven-safe baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Source: American Diabetes Association

Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027: Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, 2026 Your Medicare options When you ﬁrst sign up for Medicare, and during certain times of the year, you can choose how you get your Medicare coverage. There are 2 main ways to get Medicare:

Original Medicare

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

• Includes Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). • You can join a separate Medicare drug plan to get Medicare drug coverage (Part D). • You can use any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare. • You can also buy supplemental coverage that helps pay your out-of-pocket costs (like your 20% coinsurance).

• A Medicare-approved plan from a private company that offers an alternative to Original Medicare for your health and drug coverage. These plans bundle together your Part A, Part B, and usually Part D. • You may need to use doctors in its network and get approval (prior authorization) for certain drugs or services. • Usually have different out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare, including a yearly limit on out-of-pocket costs. • Most plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover—like vision, hearing, dental, and more.

Part A

Part B

You can add: Part D

Most plans include: You may be able to add:

Part D

Supplemental coverage This includes Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap). It can help pay some costs that Original Medicare doesn't. Or you can use coverage from a current or former employer or union, or Medicaid (if you qualify).

Extra beneﬁts

Questions about Medicare? Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight, PA MEDI can help! Free counseling is available to all Medicare beneﬁciaries. Call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 Graphic provided by U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

This advertisement is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $1.8 million with 100% funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Milestones 14

November 2026

Technology helps older adults live independently

By Jay Nachman

Technology can help keep older adults safe, secure and independent. That’s been the experience of West Philadelphia resident Gloria Pemberton, 80, who uses an Amazon Echo Show smart device. Pemberton is comforted “knowing if there is a trip or fall, I can use this to call out to somebody. If I have to get downstairs at night, I can use my voice to turn on lights.” Pemberton received the Echo Show from Katie Griffiths, an assistive technology solutions specialist at Inglis, a nonprofit organization in Philadelphia providing services to improve independence for people living with disabilities. Inglis provides services and products to maximize the independence of adults with physical disabilities living alone in Philadelphia neighborhoods and those who live in the organization’s long-term, residential care community. When an older adult requests technology assistance from Inglis, the organization first sends a spe-

cialist to a resident’s home to do an evaluation of what they have and what they need, according to Griffiths. After providing devices, a specialist helps the recipient to manage them. Many older adults are nervous about using smart home features or “always listening” devices. “We get to really help and educate,” Griffiths said. Through a grant, Pemberton was able to get her old iPad upgraded. With the upgrade, she is able to connect with friends and family through video conferencing apps, emails and text messages. She was also able to get a new MacBook computer. Pennsylvania sees assistive technology as an important way to help people stay safe and independent at home as they get older. The state has a grant program that may help pay for devices. Some older adults may also get help paying for devices and tech support through Medicaid, managed care plans or other grants. “I didn’t realize that my computer was really old,” Pemberton said.

“I use this new technology every day, including taking a Drexel class. I log on for Zoom meetings with community concerns, and I need my electronics for zoning meetings. Two neighbors come over to use my computer with me on meeting days since they don’t have one. I have spread the word to neighbors who have used Inglis’ services, too. I am so grateful.” She also uses the computer to pay bills and post photos on Facebook. For other residents, Inglis has installed smart lights, doorbell cameras and smart display devices as hubs to integrate it all. “Smart home integration is key to creating an environment that truly supports older adults and people with disabilities in their everyday routines, and helps to maintain their independence,” Griffiths said. “Inglis meets with each participant regularly to ensure that they can confidently use the technology on their own. It’s important to the Assistive Technology Solutions team that everyone we support feels comfortable enough to reach out when they have questions, something breaks or a device needs an update in between scheduled follow-ups.” An Inglis team member also can teach residents about account management. Some older adults have iCloud, Gmail and Amazon accounts but they don’t know their passwords. Some may not know how to connect to their Wi-Fi. Inglis experts also teach digital safety and security. “Scam prevention education is so import-

ant,” Griffiths said. They will explain what a robocall is and how to detect one, what scam texts look like, and how to spot phishing emails or phishing links online. “Technology is becoming an essential tool for helping older adults remain safe, connected and independent at home,” said Dyann Roth, president and CEO of Inglis. “As demand for accessible housing grows, innovative and accessible technologies can expand choice, strengthen independence, and help people age where they want to be — in their own communities.” To seek assistive technology devices or training from Inglis, older adults can call 215-581-0767. An assistive tech specialist will schedule time to discuss the application process, learn more about your daily routine and schedule an assistive technology assessment. Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.

Additional assistive technology resources: •

•

TechOWL helps people with disabilities explore the tools and technology needed to be independent. 1-800-204-7428 | www.techowlpa.org | Community Space: 1392 Cecil B. Moore Ave. Older Adult Technology Services (OATS) from AARP empowers older adults with the tools and training necessary to enrich their lives. Technology hotline: 1-888-713-3495 | www.SeniorPlanet.org

Milestones 15

November 2026

Health Brief

Crossword

By Janai Johnson

As the seasons change, so do our routines. Cooler temperatures, shorter days and bad weather can make it harder to stay active, eat well and gather with others. A little planning can help you stay connected and prepare for seasonal changes in your routine. Staying connected is important. Spending more time at home can lead to fewer opportunities to see family, friends and neighbors. Social isolation and loneliness can affect overall wellbeing and make it harder to stay connected to people and activities that are part of daily life. Look for simple ways to stay connected. Call a friend, attend an activity at your local senior center, invite someone to share a meal, or use video calls when you cannot meet in person. Even a regular phone call can help you maintain important relationships. Meals can also change as the weather gets colder. Shopping, cooking or

getting to a grocery store may be more difficult when weather conditions are poor. Keep your pantry and freezer stocked with foods you enjoy that can easily be prepared at home. Weather can also affect how safely you get around. Before going out, check the forecast and allow extra time. Wear shoes that provide good traction and dress for the temperature. If rain, snow, ice or strong winds make travel unsafe, consider postponing your trip. The National Institute on Aging recommends staying indoors when weather conditions are unsafe. If bad weather may keep you from an upcoming shopping trip, plan ahead by having enough food, medications and other essentials on hand. You can also plan ways to stay active indoors when outdoor activities are limited. Walk or stretch inside your home. You can also participate in an exercise class at your local senior center. The changing seasons do not have to mean changing your connection to the people and activities that support your well-being. Plan ahead, stay connected, keep food and other essentials on hand, and make safety an essential part of every outing. If you need help finding programs, services or resources for older adults in Philadelphia, contact the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 or visit www. pcaCares.org.

Janai Johnson is the multimedia communications specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging

Classics

CLASSICS

1 2 3 4 { 5 6 7 8 9 { { 10 11 12 13 { 14 { 15 16 { 17 { 18 19 20 { 21 22 { { { 23 { 24 25 {{{ 26 27 28 { 29 { 30 31 32 33 34 { 35 36 { 37 38 { 39 { 40 41 { 42 { 43 44 45 { 46 { 47 { { { 48 49 { 50 {{{ 51 52 53 { 54 55 56 57 58 59 { 60 61 { 62 63 { 64 { 65 66 { { 67 { 68

By Neil Manausa

CREATORS NEWS SERVICE

ACROSS 1 She building 5 John or Sebastian 10 ___ out: dress up 13 Jeans man Strauss 14 Type of football 15 Lose it 16 “Salome” solo 17 Series opener, perhaps 18 Cynosure 19 Fast and confusing 21 Audience plea 23 Up-to-date 24 ___ Huckabee Sanders 26 Light beam 29 Terhune topic 30 Tyre king 34 Yule greeting 35 Like an aviary 37 Baited beast 38 Antique maker 39 Overloaded? 40 Take ___ from me! 41 Yes follower 42 Sweetener: var. 43 Diet, maybe 44 Finish

46 Ballroom dance move 47 Had a calf 48 Apply 50 Distant, distantly 51 Jittery 54 Love, to Federer 59 Learning system 60 Roker forecast 62 Dope toter 63 Headliner 64 Totaled 65 In ___ 66 Pan or can fluid 67 Greek city-state 68 ___ chance!

DOWN 1 Smack 2 Homeroom comeback 3 Sinister 4 Hitchcock classic 5 Like Robin 6 Seed coat 7 Comden-GreenStyne hit 8 Lennon’s spouse 9 ___ Tots 10 Chihuahua bite?

11 About intro 12 DNA portion 15 Glen Campbell chart-topper 20 Witticism 22 Fuhgeddabout it! 25 Makes sense 26 Guilty reaction 27 Hulk, for one 28 On top 29 Primitive drive 31 Whirlybird whirler 32 Originate 33 Low-powered transport 35 Diddley and Derek 36 Sure ’nuff! 45 Chinese canine breed 47 “Titanic” line 49 Yankee #8 50 Fluctuates 51 Nearly 52 Response to Little Red Hen 53 Last on the list? 55 Not fooled 56 Continental currency 57 Overmuch 58 ___ life! 61 Rhine feeder

G E N E } M O P E D } G E T A

Stay healthy as the seasons change