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 2025
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
Sandra McNally
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
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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.
Philadelphia
for Aging.
PCA 2.0: Make Your Voices Heard
By Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP PCA President & CEO
Good health is the key to living and aging well. At Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA), we know it’s about having the right information, resources and support to stay active, independent and engaged at every stage of life. That’s why this issue of Milestones focuses on health.
You’ll find stories that speak to the diverse health needs of older adults. We cover mental health challenges, which affect many people but often go unnoticed. You’ll read about menopause, a natural stage of life that is seldom talked about openly.
October is also an exciting time at PCA. On Oct. 17, we’ll gather in Fairmount Park for our annual Senior Strut — celebrating fitness, fun and community. This event is a reminder that staying active is one of the best prescriptions for aging well.
We are also looking ahead to the future of PCA. To help us plan for the next 50 years, we’re launching PCA 2.0: Make Your Voices Heard. This is a citywide effort to learn directly from older adults, caregivers and community partners about what matters most.
At the heart of this initiative are a series of community listening sessions taking
place across Philadelphia this fall. These gatherings are an opportunity to sit down with neighbors; share your experiences; and talk openly about what services, programs and supports make the biggest difference in your daily life. Listening sessions aren’t just about collecting feedback. They’re about starting conversations, building relationships and making sure the voices of older Philadelphians are front and center in shaping PCA’s future.
In addition to the listening sessions, we’ve created a short survey so you can share your thoughts in whatever way works best for you. Whether you attend in person or online, or take the survey at your convenience, your input will help us understand what’s working well and what needs improvement. Most importantly, what you share will directly guide PCA’s work — from advocacy to new programs to long-term strategic planning — ensuring we remain responsive to the changing needs of our communities. Learn more and share your voice at www.pcaCares.org/voices.
As you read this issue, I encourage you to think about your own health journey. What small steps can you take to strengthen your well-being today? Whether it’s connecting with a support group, walking in the park, or simply reaching out to a friend, health grows through daily actions and community support.
Together, we can build a future where every older adult in Philadelphia has the opportunity not just to live longer, but to live healthier.
PCA programs support healthy aging across Philadelphia
By Bill Conallen
Healthy aging is about more than avoiding illness. It means having access to the resources, knowledge and support to live independently with dignity. These resources can include a Medicare plan that’s right for you, help with tasks at home, community wellness programs or access to nutritious meals. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) offers programs to help older adults age healthy and happy.
Help with Medicare
For many older adults, understanding Medicare is one of the first steps toward maintaining good health. Yet Medicare can be complicated. Dozens of plans and options are available that vary in cost and coverage. Choosing the wrong plan can lead to gaps in care or unexpected expenses. PCA can help Medicare beneficiaries make informed choices. Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight (PA MEDI) offers free, one-on-one counseling about Medicare plans, enrollment and benefits.
pointment to meet with a PA MEDI counselor, call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040. (For more information about Medicare, see the articles on page 6 and 15.)
Aging in place
“Choosing the right Medicare plan can have a direct impact on a person’s health and finances,” said Wanda Mitchell, PCA’s director of community engagement. “Our (PA MEDI) counselors walk people through the process step by step, making sure they understand their coverage and know about programs that can save them money. When people save on premiums or prescriptions, that is money they can put toward healthy food, housing or other essentials that support well-being.”
PA MEDI counselors also help eligible older adults apply for programs, such as Extra Help and the Medicare Savings Program. These programs can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Each year, PA MEDI helps thousands of Philadelphians find Medicare coverage that supports their health and finances.
The annual Medicare Open Enrollment period is Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. This is the time for all Medicare beneficiaries to review plans and coverage options for the next calendar year. To make an ap-
Even with insurance coverage, many older adults face another challenge. It is often difficult to stay independent while managing health needs at home. PCA offers long-term care services through the OPTIONS Program. These services connect older adults with tailored support so they can age in place. Services may include personal care assistance, transportation, home-delivered meals or adult day services.
“Healthy aging isn’t just about managing medical conditions.
It is about creating the right environment for people to thrive,” said Shani Gilmore, PCA’s executive administrator of long-term care. “We work with each individual to build a care plan that supports their independence. For many families, having that support makes all the difference in whether someone can remain at home safely.”
Long-term care is a cornerstone of PCA’s work. OPTIONS participants can receive additional services from PCA. These include minor home repairs and modifications to prevent falls and respite services for caregivers. The program supports health in ways that extend far beyond the clinical setting.
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Health and wellness
PCA-funded health and wellness programs empower older adults to adopt safe, healthy lifestyles. These programs reduce the risk of dependency and disability.
Through the Pennsylvania Department of Aging’s Health and Wellness Program, PCA funds and provides evidence-based health promotion programs to older adults throughout the city on topics including:
• Exercise.
• Management of chronic diseases, such as arthritis, high blood pressure and diabetes.
• Pain management.
• Falls prevention.
PCA also collaborates with other community health organizations to arrange health-related information, education, skill-building, screening and support for older adults. Programs are scheduled throughout the year and primarily take place at senior community centers. For information, call the PCA Helpline at 215765-9040.
Food is medicine
Good nutrition is as vital to healthy aging as health care and support services. Many older adults live on fixed incomes and face barriers to accessing healthy food. PCA’s meal programs provide dietitian-approved meals that meet older adults’ nutritional needs. Meals are served at senior community centers across the city. There, participants can share lunch and conversation. For older adults who cannot shop or cook, meals are also delivered directly to their homes.
“Malnutrition can lead to serious health problems. But it is preventable,” said Lauren Jirinec, PCA assistant director of health and nutrition. “We are not just delivering food. We are delivering wellness, dignity and (in many cases) human connection. At congregate meal sites, people eat well. They also share time with friends, which is so important for mental health.”
The home-delivered meals program provides another important benefit: a safety net for those who may be isolated. Delivery drivers are a friendly face for PCA’s meal recipients. Drivers often perform an informal wellness check each time they drop off a meal. This is an extra layer of support. It helps identify potential concerns and connect individuals to additional services when needed.
PCA’s health programs – PA MEDI, long-term care, health and wellness, and meal programs – combine to offer an integrated approach to wellness. Each program addresses a different aspect of health. Combined, they help older Philadelphians remain healthy, independent and engaged in their communities.
“We know that health is about more than what happens in the doctor’s office,” Jirinec said. “It is about having the tools, resources and support to live the life you choose. That is what PCA strives to provide every day.”
For more information about these and other PCA programs, call the PCA Helpline at 215-7659040 or visit www.pcaCares.org.
Philadelphia
Corporation for Aging’s Senior Strut A Health Event in the Park
P re s ented b y
Friday, October 17 • 9:30 am to 12 pm L lo yd Ha ll , 1 Bo a thou s e R o w, Kelly D ri v e
One mile walk along Kelly Drive • Health screenings Free t-shirts • Always Best Care health stage Light lunch • DJ
Tickets are $5, and beginning 9/30/25, can be purchased in advance at PCA, 642 N. Broad St., Tuesday & Thursday 12pm – 3pm or at the event
For more information call 445-456-0741
Must be 60 or older to participate
Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.
Learning the ABCs (and Ds) of Medicare
By Jay Nachman
Pennsylvania has nearly 2.8 million Medicare beneficiaries, according to the American Association for Medicare Supplement Insurance. If you’re reading this article, chances are you qualify for Medicare or will soon.
The process for obtaining Medicare coverage begins when a person turns 65. It is called the Initial Enrollment Period. This period lasts for seven months, starting three months before turning 65 and ending three months after the month of your 65th birthday.
There are two main ways to get Medicare:
• Original Medicare includes Medicare Part A (hospital in-
yearly wellness visit. (Read more in the Health Brief on page 15.)
A list of preventive and screening services Medicare Part B covers can be found at www.medicare.gov/coverage.
Additional coverage
Medicare Advantage, known as Part C, offers an alternative to Original Medicare for health and drug coverage. These plans are approved by Medicare but offered by a private company instead of the government. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer extra coverage, which can include:
• Transportation to doctor visits.
• Over-the-counter drugs that Part D doesn’t cover.
• Services to promote health and wellness.
• Customized benefits to treat specific conditions.
Medicare Supplement Insurance (called Medigap) is extra insurance from a private insurance company that works with Original Medicare to help pay a share of costs. It can be used anywhere in the United States that accepts Medicare. Under federal law, there is a one-time six-month Medigap Open Enrollment period. It starts the first month with Medicare Part B. During this time, recipients can enroll in any Medigap policy and will generally get better prices and
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surance) and Part B (medical insurance).
• Drug coverage is provided through a separate Medicare plan, called Part D.
Medicare Part B covers many preventive and screening services to help older adults stay healthy. These services help detect health problems early, determine the most effective treatments and prevent certain diseases. Preventive services include exams, vaccines, lab tests and screenings. They also include programs for health monitoring, counseling and education. Medicare covers screenings for cardiovascular disease, cancer, glaucoma, as well as diabetes self-management training and a
OCTOBER
AWARENESS MONTH
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more choices. After this period, beneficiaries may not be able to buy a Medigap policy, and it may cost more.
Medigap policies do not include prescription drug coverage. They also generally don’t cover longterm care, vision or dental care, hearing aids, eyeglasses, or private-duty nursing.
What to consider
According to the HealthCare.gov website, there are three things to know before picking a health insurance plan.
There are four categories: Bronze, silver, gold and platinum. These categories show how beneficiaries and a plan share costs. Plan categories have nothing to do with quality of care.
Beneficiaries pay a monthly bill to an insurance company, called a premium. This payment is required, even if a beneficiary doesn’t use medical services that month. Beneficiaries pay out-of-pocket costs, including a deductible, when they get care. It is important to think about both kinds of costs when shopping for a plan.
Some plan types allow beneficiaries to use almost any doctor or health care facility. Others limit your choices or charge you more if you use providers outside their network.
Need help?
Older adults with low incomes can determine online if they can qualify for Medicaid, which helps cover medical costs for individuals
with limited income and resources. This website also explains who to include in a household and how to estimate income: www.healthcare. gov/lower-costs.
Medicare Savings Programs help with Medicare Part A and B costs. If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for one of these programs. It could save you more than $1,900 each year, according to Medicare. These programs are administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. You can apply online at www.compass.state.pa.us or by phone at 1-866-550-4355.
Extra Help is a Medicare program to help people with limited income and resources. It works with any Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to lower the costs of premiums and prescription drug costs. If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for Extra Help.
If you’re confused about your Medicare options, Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight (PA MEDI) can help! This statewide service is operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is a trusted local resource for Medicare help. All services are free, confidential and provided by specially trained certified counselors. For more information about PA MEDI, see page 4 or call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040. The tollfree statewide PA MEDI Helpline is 1-800-783-7067.
Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.
U.S. Navy and Marine Corps celebrate 250 years
By Jay Nachman
In 1775, the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps were founded in Philadelphia. The fight for American independence was launched from the Delaware River.
The Navy and Marine Corps will commemorate their joint 250th birthdays in 2025. A weeklong celebration will be held Oct. 9-16 on both sides of the Delaware River in Philadelphia and Camden, New Jersey.
“We have a lot of interesting people coming and ships and activities. It’s really a big, significant event,” said Monica Hallman, who retired as a Navy chief petty officer after 22 years of service and is the Vice President of Homecoming 250, the group that is organizing the celebration devoted to honoring the legacy of the Navy and Marine Corps.
The activities will include a parade of Naval and Marine Corps ships. Participants will be able to step back in time by touring historic ships, including the cruiser Olympia, the submarine Becuna and the Battleship New Jersey.
On Oct. 13, there will be a flyover by the Blue Angels. Additionally, there will be exhibits at:
• American Swedish Historical Museum.
• Independence Seaport Museum.
• Library Company of Philadelphia.
• Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial in Camden.
On Oct. 12, there will be an All Veterans Reunion Picnic on Independence Mall. Veterans from all branches of the U.S. armed services can enjoy a day of camaraderie, remembrance and celebration. This event will feature food trucks, support from veteran service organizations, and resources to honor and assist those who have served.
For more information about the 250th anniversary celebrations of the Navy and Marine Corps, call 856-745-1141 or visit homecoming250.org.
Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.
Events
October 2025
THIS MONTH:
• Breast Cancer Awareness Month
• Health Literacy Month
• Residents’ Rights Month
• OCTOBER 1: International Day of Older Persons
• OCTOBER 2: Yom Kippur
• OCTOBER 13: Indigenous Peoples Day
• OCTOBER 31: HALLOWEEN
OCTOBER 3
CHESS CLUB
Learn, practice & have fun with friendly matches & strategy building. 12-4 p.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215685-2715 | Free
OCTOBER 4
ROXTOBERFEST
Annual fall-themed festival with food trucks, craft brews, German folk music & children’s activities. 12-5 p.m. Ridge Avenue from Lyceum Avenue to Leverington Avenue. 215508-2358 | Free
OCTOBER 6
ENHANCE FITNESS CLASS
Evidence based exercise program focused on dynamic cardiovascular exercise, strength training, balance & flexibility. 9:30 a.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-4268610 | Free
OCTOBER 7
QIGONG CLASS
Coordinated body-posture, movement, breathing & meditation to optimize energy within the body, mind & spirit. 10:30 a.m. Center in the Park. 215- 848-7722 | Free
OCTOBER 9
Send your calendar items two months in advance to: MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org Questions? Call 267-507-2168.
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE CLASS
Introduces the basics, builds communication skills while fostering inclusivity & connection. 9:30 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215-685-2715 | Free
OCTOBER 10
YOGA CLASS
Increase strength, flexibility & relaxation with gentle movements & breathing exercises. All experience levels. 9:45 a.m. Center on the Hill. 215-247-8855 | Free
OCTOBER 14
TOTAL BODY STRENGTH
Keep the energy going with a special & fun workout. Both seated & standing exercises. 10 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia. 215-698-7300 | Free
OCTOBER 15
POTTERY CLASS
Learn the techniques of working with clay. All experience levels. 11 a.m. Center in the Park. 215- 848-7722 | Free
OCTOBER 16
CROCHET CLASS
Learn new skills, create handmade projects & connect with others in a supportive setting. 9 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215-685-2715 | Free
OCTOBER 17
PCA’S ANNUAL SENIOR STRUT
Adults 60+ can enjoy a one-mile walk led by Mummers, health screenings, light lunch & more. 9:30 to noon. Lloyd Hall on Boathouse Row. 445-456-0741 | $5
OCTOBER 21
LGBTQIA+ CONNECTION
Discussion open to all who want to share stories, ask questions & learn more. 12:30 p.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia. 215698-7300, ext. 193 | Free
OCTOBER 22
PASSWORD & PASSKEYS WORKSHOP
Presentation by AARP about online safety. 1 p.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts. 215-546-5879 | Free
OCTOBER 23
LEGAL WORKSHOP
Presentation by Community Legal Services about housing, public benefits, employment, wills among & other legal matters. 1 p.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts. 215-546-5879 | Free
OCTOBER 24
PINOCHLE
Learn the rules, strategies & techniques of this popular card game. 1 p.m. Journey’s Way. 215-487-1750 | Free
OCTOBER 27
COOKING CLASS
Hands-on, social experience to learn new recipes, sharpen culinary skills & enjoy healthy meals together. 10 a.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-426-8610 | Free
OCTOBER 28-30
PCA REGIONAL CONFERENCE ON AGING
Cutting-edge program & continuing education for professionals who work with older adults. Experts present relevant, practical & current information for anyone working in the aging field. Presented by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. Register: https://cvent.me/G1RO9d | $30-$50 per session | 215-765-9040
OCTOBER 30
THE SOUND OF PHILADELPHIA
Musician & songwriter Jake Leschinsky shines a light on the legacy of Philadelphia music. From Chubby Checker to the Roots, the streets of Philadelphia tell a rich musical story. This is an Art-Reach Encore Artist Workshop. 12:30 p.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia. 215-6987300 x193 | Free
ASK SABATINA
“What
If a person passes away without a will, that means they died “intestate.” When this happens, the Register of Wills will appoint someone to administer the estate. Usually, the administrator is a spouse or child of the deceased.
Scan QR Code to visit our website phila.gov/wills
Understanding mental health conditions in older adults
By Mary Anna Rodabaugh
More than 20% of adults older than 60 experience a mental health or neurological disorder, according to the Alliance for Aging Research. Common conditions include depression and anxiety. But several other mental health conditions also require proper attention and monitoring.
Many symptoms of psychiatric disorders can mimic those of cognitive and physical health issues. Thorough evaluations are critical to properly diagnose and treat mental health conditions. Changes in mental health are not a normal part of aging. Any concerning behaviors or symptoms should be discussed with a health care provider.
“Older years of life can be ful-
adults can experience late-onset schizophrenia. According to the Institutes of Health, 15-20% of all schizophrenia cases are classified as late-onset schizophrenia, which typically develops in individuals aged 45 or older.
Older adults with late-onset schizophrenia may not hallucinate as frequently as younger patients. They may also experience fewer severe symptoms that affect their safety or daily functioning.
“More typically, older adults experience persistent beliefs that people are trying to harm them and may struggle with relationships,” Dr. Ellison said. These symptoms can become severe and require intervention. Treatment may include medication, group therapy and structured
day programs.
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that involves shifts in mood, energy and activity levels.
These include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). While the disorder usually begins in young adulthood, it can also develop later in life.
In younger adults, bipolar disorder carries a higher risk of suicidal behavior. In older adults, the risk of suicide is lower.
Symptoms also present differently based on age. Younger patients may show risky behavior and elation. Older adults often experi-
filling and rewarding. But psychiatric disorders can sometimes develop during those years,” said Dr. James Ellison, psychiatrist at Jefferson Health. “These disorders are treatable, and people should try to overcome the stigma to seek help.”
Stigma is often fueled by the unfair assumption that older adults experience significant cognitive decline. This harmful stereotype can prevent many people from seeking the care they need.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that changes how a person thinks, feels and behaves. It can cause delusions, hallucinations and disorganized thinking. While schizophrenia often develops during young adulthood, older
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ence irritability more than euphoria.
“The long-term course of bipolar disorder is associated with impaired psychosocial functioning, increased medical illness, cognitive decline, higher risk of dementia and increased mortality,” Dr. Ellison said.
Symptoms include sleeplessness, impulsive behavior (such as overspending or reckless driving) and irritability. Importantly, these behaviors may also stem from medical conditions, including stroke or dementia. The condition is treatable. Obtaining a professional evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
BPD is a mental health condition that affects emotional regulation. BPD is typically diagnosed after age 18. It was once thought to “burn out” after age 50. But this is no longer believed to be the case.
“In older adults, the condition can persist,” Dr. Ellison said. “The most severe and self-harming patients may not have survived into older adulthood. We now see different symptoms: depression, profound unease and disturbances in interpersonal relationships.”
Life experience, stable relationships, employment and psychotherapy can help manage BPD. While symptoms can lessen, the condition rarely disappears. Determining root causes can be
challenging. Dementia, PTSD, bipolar disorder or substance abuse may mimic BPD symptoms. Patients with mood disorders often develop overlapping personality disorders, making professional evaluation essential.
The challenge
Many early symptoms of psychiatric conditions mirror those of dementia, which complicates diagnosis. Consulting a health care provider is the first step toward treatment.
“I think people with bipolar disorder have a higher rate of self-recognition that something is wrong and that their moods are unstable,” Dr. Ellison said. “They are more inclined to seek help. However, people with personality disorders or delusions are more likely to blame others.”
Awareness is essential. With proper care, treatment and support, older adults can enjoy happy and healthy lives.
Mental health resources
Philadelphia offers a variety of mental health resources. These include crisis hotlines, counseling services and community support organizations.
• 988 Crisis Line: Call or text 988 for 24/7 support. This service is free and confidential, providing immediate assistance and resources.
• Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual DisAbility Services: This city department provides a range of mental health services for adults and children. These include consultations, referrals and crisis intervention. A 24-hour Mental Health Delegate Line is available for immediate support at 215-685-6440.
• www.HealthyMindsPhilly.org: An online resource that offers tools for mental health counseling, online screenings and mental health first aid training. The site focuses on community engagement and provides information on local events and services.
• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Philadelphia offers support groups, educational resources and advocacy for individuals affected by mental illness. NAMI provides free mental health support, as well as online support groups and classes. Text “NAMI” to 741741 for 24/7, confidential, free crisis counseling. If you are feeling down, and would like to chat to a NAMI Philly Peer or Family Member, call the Warmline at 1-844-PHL-HOPE. For information, https://namiphilly.org.
Mary Anna Rodabaugh is a writer, editor and writing coach.
• The Merakey Mental Health Walk-In Clinic is Philadelphia’s first behavioral health urgent care designed to provide same-day, non-emergency mental health services to adults. The clinic is open to everyone, age 18 or older, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Located at 3125 N. Broad St., near Allegheny Ave., the clinic is open daily, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information, call 267-219-8801.
Understanding menopause: A guide for older adults and caregivers
By Sarah Greer
Menopause is the time in life when someone has gone 12 months in a row without a menstrual period. On average, it happens at age 52.
Menopause is a natural process that occurs when the ovaries stop making hormones. It can also begin after surgery or medical treatment. This is called induced menopause.
Menopause happens to people with ovaries. But the timing and symptoms are different for everyone. Learning about it can help people and their caregivers face this change with confidence and care.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the period before menopause starts. It often begins in the 40s, but can start earlier. During this time, the ovaries make less estrogen. This can cause changes in menstrual cy-
• Vaginal or urinary changes
– Lower estrogen can cause dryness or discomfort. Some people may have more urinary urgency or infections.
• Mood changes – Anxiety, sadness or irritability may occur.
• Memory and focus problems
– Some people notice “brain fog.”
• Bone and heart health –Estrogen helps protect bones and the heart. After menopause, the risk of osteoporosis and heart problems can rise.
it also marks a new chapter. Selfcare, support and medical advice can make menopause easier to manage.
Caregivers can make a big difference when they stay informed and show compassion. Caregivers can help by noticing symptoms, understanding their impact and offering practical support. These steps allow people to go through this stage with dignity and confidence.
Menopause resources
cles, as well as other physical and emotional effects. Perimenopause can last months or even years.
People in perimenopause may notice:
• Periods that are lighter, heavier or irregular.
• Hot flashes and night sweats.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Mood swings or feeling irritable.
• Fatigue or difficulty focusing.
• Changes in sexual desire.
Common symptoms
Many of the symptoms from perimenopause continue during menopause, sometimes in different ways. Common symptoms include:
• Hot flashes and night sweats –Sudden warmth, sweating or a fast heartbeat. Night sweats can make it hard to sleep.
• Sleep problems – Hormone changes can make it hard to fall or stay asleep.
How caregivers can help
Caregivers play an important role in supporting people during menopause. Here are some ways to help:
• Build healthy habits – A balanced diet, exercise and good sleep can ease symptoms. Walking or strength exercises are good for bones.
• Support stress management
– Mindfulness, yoga, and relaxation can improve mood and reduce stress.
• Help with medical care – Regular check-ups are important. Hormone therapy or other treatments may help with symptoms.
• Provide emotional support –Listen, be patient and show understanding. Let people know their experiences are real and valid.
A natural life stage
Menopause is a normal part of life. It can bring challenges. But
For more information about menopause, speak with your doctor. Helpful resources are also available online.
Local support can be found through the University of Pennsylvania at https://guides. library.upenn.edu/communityhealth/menopause.
National organizations include:
• The Menopause Society, which offers patient education: https://menopause. org/patient-education
• The Society for Women’s Health Research, which provides a Menopause Preparedness Toolkit: https:// swhr.org/menopause-toolkit.
Sarah Greer is the communications manager at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.
Get the most out of Medicare Thriller
Source: Medicare.gov
Medicare covers doctor’s visits, hospital care and prescription drugs. It also covers a wide range of other health services and items.
Welcome visit
Medicare Part B covers one Welcome to Medicare preventive visit in the first 12 months. This visit isn’t a physical exam. It is a review of your:
• Medical and health history.
• Recommended preventive services.
• Risk factors for certain conditions.
Health screenings
Screenings can help diagnose diseases early, often before there are symptoms. Medicare covers these screenings:
