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.
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.
Imagine walking into a place where the room is filled with laughter, the smell of a hot meal and friends waiting to greet you. That’s what a senior center feels like. It’s not just a building — it’s a second home for many older adults in Philadelphia.
September is National Senior Center Month. Senior centers play an important role in the lives of older adults and in strengthening our communities. Here in Philadelphia, our senior centers are more than buildings. They are lifelines. Senior centers are places to share stories, enjoy meals and develop friendships.
In a city as vibrant and diverse as ours, senior centers serve as neighborhood anchors. They provide opportunities for connection, purpose and joy at every stage of aging. You can find a host of exciting activities at many senior centers. Options include exercise classes, nutrition programs, technology workshops and cultural celebrations. These programs empower older adults to stay healthy,
engaged, and independent. They also help to combat social isolation.
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is proud to support 28 senior community centers and satellite meal sites in the city. (See pages 8-9.) We are grateful for the dedicated staff, volunteers and participants. These individuals breathe life into these spaces every day.
This month, I encourage you to visit your local senior center or invite someone to join you. Let’s celebrate the strength, creativity, and community that flourish there.
Senior Center Month 2025
The 2025 theme for National Senior Center Month is “Powering Possibilities: Flip the Script.” According to the National Council on Aging, it challenges outdated perceptions of aging and of senior centers. It celebrates connection, purpose and resilience in later life.
More than 10,000 senior centers across the country are creating inclusive, engaging spaces where older adults thrive.
Former Philadelphia City Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds-Brown discusses her career in politics
By Jay Nachman
Writing a book was a lifelong dream for former Philadelphia City Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds-Brown. Now, she can add “author” to her long list of distinguished career accomplishments.
Reynolds-Brown recently published “Walking a Tightrope Backwards in High Heels.” The book is part political memoir and part leadership manifesto. It offers a powerful account from a former public servant. Her story shows what can be achieved with equal measures of moxie and grace.
The title comes from personal experience. It is a phrase Reynolds-Brown, 72, often used on the floor of City Council. “I was a working mother, walking on a tightrope, backwards, in high heels,” she said.
The idea comes from a quote frequently attributed to dancer Ginger Rogers, who said that she did everything her partner Fred Astaire did. But she did it “backwards and
in high heels.”
Reynolds-Brown adopted the metaphor, because it’s factual. “In many ways, I saw my career that way,” she said. “Always doing the juggling act between my personal drive and ambition, balanced with wanting to be a present helicopter mom and an attentive wife.”
Before entering politics, Reynolds-Brown danced professionally for about 10 years as a member of Philadanco (Philadelphia Dance Company). She taught jazz classes until she ran for City Council for a second time in 1999. “I carried my briefcase on one arm and my dance bag on the other,” she said. Reynolds-Brown holds both a master’s and a bachelor’s degree in education from Penn State. She is also a “proud” graduate of Philadelphia High School for Girls. She began her career as an educator. But soon realized she wanted to develop professionally beyond the classroom.
She transitioned into youth development, working as an evaluator of Philadelphia youth programs and counselor for young people involved in the juvenile justice system at Philadelphia Family Court.
In the 1990s, Reynolds-Brown worked in Harrisburg for Pennsylvania Sen. Chaka Fattah Sr. She noticed that there were 50 state senators, but no female African American legislative aides. “How could that be?,” Reynolds-Brown wondered. She was on her way to becoming the only Black and only female state senate legislative aide at that time.
“If women are going to have their issues discussed at the table, if women are going to have issues regarding family and children and health care and the arts discussed at the table, we need to be at the table,” said Reynolds-Brown, who has one daughter. “I saw too often this reality, this picture. When women were not at the table, we were on the menu.”
So, Reynolds-Brown left her role as a government professional and entered electoral politics. The Wynnefield resident went on to win five consecutive terms as an at-large city councilwoman.
As one of Philadelphia’s most influential councilwomen, Reynolds-Brown shattered glass ceilings. She championed transformative legislation on behalf of women’s advancement, as well as opportunities for children and families. Her impact extended to the arts, minorities, women-owned businesses LGBTQ+ rights and environmental initiatives.
She also was a championship-level mentor. “We should lift as we climb,” she said. “One chapter in my book is devoted to coaching. It discusses how mentoring is so valuable. Why? Because ultimately coaching can yield wonderful rewards for all involved,” she said. “My last chapter, called ‘Passing The Baton, aka Legacy,’ focuses on the importance of mentoring and coaching.”
From start to publication, it took Reynolds-Brown five years of work. She began by writing in longhand on pads of paper and her iPad.
All the while, while pulling notes from dozens of boxes of pictures and files. Eventually, her daughter convinced her to use the computer.
Among the audiences Reynolds-Brown has in mind for the book are women who are thinking about entering non-traditional careers, including electoral politics. The book offers tools and strategies they can consider when entering that world.
Additionally, she said, the book is for mentors, coaches, fathers of girls and especially for women “who desire to climb the career ladder with the understanding that no one gets an exemption from a trip up, boulder or dark tunnel. The book offers lessons that one should consider when you’re on the rebound of those sometimes avoidable, sometimes non-avoidable, firestorms.”
Free book launch event
The official book launch of “Walking a Tightrope Backwards in High Heels,” written by Blondell Reynolds-Brown, in converstaion with 6abc’s Tamala Edwards, will be Sept. 17, at 7 p.m., at Parkway Central Library, located at 1901 Vine St. The event is free, but registration is required at FreeLibrary. org/calendar
Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories
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
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
• Free t-shirts • Always Best Care health stage • Light lunch • DJ For more information call 445-456-0741
be 60 or older to participate
I AM PCA: The faces of our senior centers
By Bill Conallen
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) operates two senior community centers and supports the entire senior center network throughout Philadelphia. PCA’s Firehouse Active Adult Center and Southwest Senior Center each serve hundreds of older adults every week. These centers offer more than just daily activities. They are welcoming spaces where older adults can stay active, build friendships and find support.
During National Senior Center Month in September, PCA recognizes the many people who make these centers special. They include volunteers, staff, class instructors and members. Each person plays a part in creating a caring and supportive place for older Philadelphians.
At Firehouse Active Adult Center
“Being part of this community keeps you social,” she said. “You meet people, you laugh and you stay active.”
Olivia Woodson-Abney, 74, volunteers at the center in many ways. She helps to serve meals and assists members who need support with forms or other paperwork.
Woodson-Abney believes the time she spends at Firehouse improves her mental and physical health.
“This place helps me feel better all around,” she said. “Helping out gives me energy, and it lifts my mood.”
paved the way,” Clark said. “Now I do it for others. It keeps me young.”
As Firehouse’s center counselor, Jacqueline King plays a key role in welcoming new members and building trust. She also leads wellness and exercise classes that focus on mobility, strength and stress reduction.
“We laugh, we stretch, we move and we do it together,” King said. “We support each other.”
in West Philadelphia, the spirit of volunteerism runs deep. Elizabeth Richburg-Durand, 77, is a fixture at the front desk. She warmly welcomes visitors, answers the phone and provides information about center programs. RichburgDurand also takes part in art center’s classes and enjoys sharing her work with others.
“The work we do here gives you a purpose,” she said. “You are not just passing time. You are learning, growing and helping others. That keeps me coming back.”
Cherrie Belcher, 91, began attending Firehouse shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic. She quickly found ways to get involved. Belcher volunteers in the kitchen and also enjoys participating in computer and craft classes. The center provides more than something to do. It gives her a sense of belonging.
Pat Clark, 72, has been a regular at the center for more than a decade. Her contributions range from seasonal decorations to organizing food distributions. She also motivates other members to get involved by reminding them that their presence and participation matter.
“I enjoy helping out those who
At Southwest Senior Center, members are equally engaged. The center offers a wide variety of programs. Offerings include line dancing, painting, technology training, chronic disease selfmanagement and health screenings. Hot lunch is served every weekday. But more than that, the center is a place where members form lasting friendships.
“Our center is a second home for many people,” said Paulette
(Continued on page 7)
PCA’s Southwest Senior Center offers a wide variety of programs. It is a place where members form lasting friendships.
Cherrie Belcher volunteers at Firehouse Active Adult Center and enjoys craft classes.
(Continued from page 6)
Visitors to Firehouse Active Adult Center will be warmly greeted by Elizabeth Richburg-Durand at the front desk.
Cunningham, Southwest Senior Center’s director. “It is a place where older adults feel safe and welcome. They support each other here.”
One of the highlights of the center is the Garden Club. Members grow vegetables, herbs and flowers in raised beds and large pots. The crops that are thriving under their
care include okra, watermelon, collard greens and corn. The club shares both the harvest and the joy of gardening.
“We meet on Tuesday, just before lunch,” said Garden Club member Cynthia Murray. “And we have about 15 to 20 members. We enjoy each other’s company, and we are proud of what we grow.”
The group formed about eight years ago. “Whatever they plant, they can take home,” Cunningham said. “It gives them something to care for and share.”
Southwest’s strong volunteer leadership extends to other areas.
Carolyn Sims-Nesmith directs the center’s choir. She leads members in rehearsals and performances for special events. Sims-Nesmith said
singing together brings a sense of joy and unity to everyone involved.
“When we sing, we share joy,” she said. “It lifts spirits and makes people feel proud. Music brings people together and that is what this center is all about.”
Whether they are serving food, leading classes or growing tomatoes, the people at PCA’s senior centers bring energy, kindness and commitment to their communities.
During National Senior Center Month, PCA proudly celebrates them — because they are PCA.
We meet you where you are to help you feel better, live safer and stay connected to what you love.
Healing powered by heart, backed by a team who truly knows our participants.
Connect with us to learn more about our coordinated care. Call 215-339-4747 or visit mercylife.org.
Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.
Senior Center Map Legend
1. PCA’s Southwest Senior Center 6916 Elmwood Ave. | 1-445-444-2340
2. PCA’s Firehouse Active Adult Center 5331-41 Haverford Ave. | 215-768-4354
3. Star Harbor Senior Citizen Center 4700 Springfield Ave. | 215-727-0100
4. West Philadelphia Senior Community Center 1016-26 N. 41st St. | 215-386-0379
5. Marconi Older Adult Program 2433 S. 15th St. | 215-218-0800
6. PHA Wilson Park 2508 Jackson St. | 215-684-4895
7. St. Edmonds Senior Community Center 2130 S. 21st St. | 215-790-9530
8. PHA Cassie L. Holly Apartments Satellite 2100 Dickinson St. | 215-684-4891
9. South Philadelphia Older Adult Center 1430 E. Passyunk Ave. | 215-685-1697
10. Philadelphia Senior Center on the Avenue of the Arts & Asian Pacific Resource Center 509 S. Broad St. | 215-546-5879
11. On-Lok House 219 N. 10th St. | 215-925-3118
12. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center 2100 W. Cecil B. Moore Ave. | 215-685-2716
13. Northern Living Center
827 N. Franklin St. | 215-978-1300
14. Lutheran Settlement House Senior Center 1340 Frankford Ave. | 267-426-8610
15. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny Branch 1900 W. Allegheny Ave. | 267-286-1455
16. Norris Square Senior Center 2121 N. Howard St. | 215-423-7241
17. Nativity BVM Senior Community Center 3255 Belgrade St. | 215-423-2772
18. Mann Older Adult Center 3201 N. 5th St. | 215-685-9844
19. Juniata Park Older Adult Center 1251 East Sedgley Ave. | 215-685-1490
20. Peter Bressi Northeast Senior Center 4744-46 Frankford Ave. | 215-831-2926
21. Center at Journey’s Way 403 Rector St. | 215-487-1750
22. PHA Emlen Arms 6733 Emlen St. | 215-684-5892
23. Center in the Park 5818 Germantown Ave. | 215-848-7722
24. West Oak Lane Senior Center 7210-18 Ogontz Ave. | 215-685-3511
25. Northeast Older Adult Center 8101 Bustleton Ave. | 215-685-0576
26. KleinLife: Rhawnhurst Satellite 2101 Strahle St. | 215-745-3127
Older adults of all skill levels learn new stitches & create beautiful projects over friendly conversation. 9 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215-685-2715 | Free
SEPTEMBER 5
HEALTH FAIR
Vaccines provided by Care Trust Pharmacy. Fresh fruit & vegetables giveaway by State Rep. Amen Brown. Senior Farmers Market Nutrition program produce vouchers distributed on-site. Educational sessions presented by Thomas Jefferson University. 10:30 to 4:30 p.m. Star Harbor Senior Community Center. 215-727-0100 | Free
Develop or refine your musical skills with individual lessons. 12:30 p.m. Center in the Park. 215-848-7722 | Free
Send your calendar items two months in advance to: MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org Questions? Call 215-765-9000, ext. 5081.
SEPTEMBER 10
BINGO
Join the fun. 10 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny. 267-286-1455 | $0.10/ board (6-board minimum)
SEPTEMBER 11
ART CLASS
Participants will learn a variety of mediums, including painting, watercolors, paper-mache, sketching & collage. 11 a.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-426-8610 | Free
SEPTEMBER 12
LINE DANCING
Move, groove & enjoy the music. No partner required. 9:30 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215-685-2715 | Free
SEPTEMBER 13
BEGINNERS CERAMICS CLASS
Get creative with clay. Shape, mold & paint unique pieces. 10 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts. 215-546-5879 | Free
SEPTEMBER 14
MEXICAN
INDEPENDENCE DAY FESTIVAL
PECO Multicultural Series. 2-8 p.m. Independence Blue Cross River Rink. 215-9222FUN | Free
SEPTEMBER 15
CAFÉ FOR CARE PARTNERS & CREATIVE
CONNECTIONS
Pilot program for people with dementia & their caregivers. Stimulating activities in art, music & culture. Respite time for care partners. 10:30 to noon. Firehouse Active Adult Center. Register: artzphilly.org/event-calendar | 610-721-1606 | Free
Gameplay stimulates brain areas that are responsible for memory formation & complex thought processes in all ages. Noon. Center on the Hill. 215-247-8855 | $2
SEPTEMBER 19
PINOCHLE
Sharpen your mind & enjoy friendly competition. This class will cover the rules, strategies, & techniques. Beginners welcome. 1 p.m. Journey’s Way. 215-487-1750 | Free
SEPTEMBER 20 & 21
WE ARE THE SEEDS PHILLY
Celebration of indigenous arts & culture. PECO Multicultural Series. 12-9 p.m. Cherry Street Pier. 215-922-2FUN | Free
SEPTEMBER 23
MAH JONG
Learn the rules, sharpen skills & play this timeless game with friends old & new. 12:30 p.m. Center on the Hill. 215-247-8855 | $
SEPTEMBER 24
SILVER SNEAKERS
Exercise program for older adults, focused on strength, flexibility & balance. 9 a.m. Center in the Park. 215-848-7722 | Free
SEPTEMBER 26
TAI CHI
Find your balance in this gentle movement class for older adults. Promotes relaxation, flexibility & overall well-being. 11:15 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts. 215-546-5879 | Free
SEPTEMBER 27
INTERGENERATIONAL COMMUNITY DAY & HEALTH FAIR
Family-friendly day of fun, connection & wellness. Activities for all ages, health screenings, community resources & entertainment. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Deliverance Evangelistic Church. 215-226-7600 | Free
SEPTEMBER 27
CAFÉ FOR CARE PARTNERS & CREATIVE CONNECTIONS
Pilot program for people with dementia & their caregivers. Stimulating activities in art, music & culture. Respite time for care partners. 10:30 to noon. Center in the Park. Register: artzphilly.org/cafe-for-care-partners-creative-connections | Free
SEPTEMBER 29
CHAIR ZUMBA
Latin dance-exercise gets you moving & looking forward to the next steps. 9:30 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia. 215-6987300 | Free
SEPTEMBER 30
CHAIR YOGA
Moderate stretches to regain movement & flexibility, while practicing breathing exercises to help cleanse the soul. 9:30 a.m. Star Harbor Senior Community Center. 215727-0100 | Free
Senior centers offer a framework for retirement
By Alicia M. Colombo
Retirement offers numerous benefits. These include free time to pursue interests, travel and spend with your loved ones. However, retirement can also bring significant challenges. Many retirees have difficulty dealing with this significant life change. Some unexpected consequences of retirement can include boredom, lacking a sense of purpose, financial insecurity, and social isolation.
To successfully navigate retirement, you need a new structure for your post-employment life. Switching from packed workdays to open-ended schedules can be daunting at first. Many retirees don’t know what to do with their time once the work schedule stops.
The solution is at your local senior community center. When Sheila Roberson, of Lawncrest, turned 60 last December, she was encouraged by her neighbor Evelyn Nelson to check out Philadelphia Senior Center – Avenue of the Arts
detrimental to your health. Lack of “physical activity and sedentary behavior are major risk factors for chronic disease. These behaviors may change at retirement with implications for health in later life,” according to the National Library of Medicine.
“Since I’ve been going to the center and moving more, I’ve been doing good,” she said. Going there “helps me stay active.”
expression.”
There is so much to do at senior centers that most members come regularly and stay all day. Nelson attends PSC – Arts 2-3 times each week. “Sometimes, I go every weekday. The meals are great. We get coffee or tea, with hot and cold meal options each day,” Nelson said. “The staff is great. Everything is so organized and clean. It’s a very welcoming space.”
(PSC – Arts). Nelson, 83, enjoys Skip-Bo card games, ballet and line dance at the center.
“I was a Certified Nurse Aide for 30 years. I never thought I would want to be around older adults after I retired,” said Roberson. “But soon discovered that I love talking to older people. That’s my gift.”
She was happy to find that senior centers have much more to offer than socializing. “They have a lot of activities,” she said. “The meals are good. They go on trips. They help you out, too. If you’re on a fixed income, the staff are very supportive and help you out if you are in need.”
Nelson is not new to retirement. She was forced to stop working in 2013 due to chronic health issues. “When I first retired, I was going back-and-forth to doctor’s appointments due to osteoarthritis. You get stiff just sitting around the house.”
Though it may seem counterintuitive, a more relaxed lifestyle may actually be
Nelson participates in Zumba dance-exercise classes and uses the stationary bike in the center’s Fitness Room. She completed the Arthritis Foundation’s six-week Walk with Ease program in midAugust.
“We walked a mile each session, together, as a group. I even lost some pounds,” said Nelson, who wants to look into starting a regular Walking Club at PSC – Arts. “Everybody had a great time, while being active. We want to continue.”
In addition to physical fitness, Nelson is also keeping her mind active. Before retirement, Nelson never had done any formal writing. Now, she participates in the weekly Storytelling & Writing sessions at PSC – Arts. “In this writing group, you are encouraged to share your personal stories,” she said. “The instructor encourages you to get your emotions out through writing, instead of keeping everything inside. It’s a form of art therapy through self-
Come and try out everything that senior centers have to offer!
You will find a warm welcome at any of the 28 senior community centers or satellite meal locations that are supported by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). For locations, see pages 8-9.
(See page 15 for crossword)
Alicia M. Colombo is the editor of Milestones.
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
Beware of inheritance and SNAP benefits scams
Source: Pennsylvania Department of Aging and Department of Human Services
Older Pennsylvanians should be aware of a new scam involving fake emails from scammers posing as Pennsylvania state employees. The reported scheme promises a large inheritance. But upfront payment is required to access the funds. Scammers often use convincing language and email addresses that appear to come from official agencies.
“Older adults are often targeted due to the savings they’ve accumulated over a lifetime,” said Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich. “Scams like these can devastate retirements and families. We urge older adults to talk to a trusted family member or contact their local Area Agency on Aging before responding to any suspicious messages.”
Warning signs:
• Emails or calls about unexpected inheritances or prizes.
• Requests for upfront payments or personal information.
• Emails or websites that don’t end in pa.gov.
• Pressure to act quickly or in secrecy.
What to do:
• Never share personal or financial information with unknown contacts.
• Do not send money, gift cards or other payment to strangers.
• Report suspected scams:
○ PA Insurance Department or Department of Banking and Securities: 1-866-PAComplaint
○ PA Attorney General’s Office: 1-800-441-2555.
• If you or someone you know suspects a scam, contact PCA’s Helpline at 215-765-9040 for support or connection to local protective services.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) is alerting Pennsylvanians of another scam.
Phone calls targeting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit recipients have been reported. Scammers are directing users to call a number
to verify their identity, or their benefits will be cancelled.
Phone numbers being used by the scammers include:
• 1-888-273-6954
• 1-844-239-5136
• 1-888-592-8936
DHS employees will never ask for personal information in an unsolicited text message, email or phone call. The department sends informational texts and calls people who receive SNAP, Medicaid and other benefits only from this number: 1-833-648-1964.
DHS calls or text messages will not include:
• Details about your benefits, such as the amount of SNAP approved.
• Requests for specific personal information.
• Links to unofficial sites. Most DHS texts will direct to dhs. pa.gov, COMPASS (www. compass.dhs.pa.gov), or a website that ends in .gov or .org.
DHS encourages SNAP and other benefit recipients to do the following:
• Lock your card when not in use.
• Change your PIN every month.
• Report suspicious texts or calls about DHS benefits to 1-844-DHS-TIPS (347-8477).
Learn more: dhs.pa.gov/scams
Transform Your Life: Bariatric Surgery for Weight Loss and Renewed Hope!
“Everyone has the power to transform their life and overcome the challenges of obesity. At Roxborough Memorial Hospital, we’re here to support your journey toward better health and a brighter future.” — Dr. Piotr Krecioch, General and Bariatric Surgeon
Bariatric Surgery and Wellness Program
Senior centers promote healthy aging Boxer
Senior centers help older adults stay healthy, independent and engaged. According to the National Council on Aging, these offerings can have a real impact. Older adults experience measurable improvement in physical, social, mental and overall well-being.
Social engagement
Continued mental activity supports healthy aging. An important benefit of senior centers is a connection to your peers and to the community. Beyond socialization, centers provide older adults with volunteer opportunities. For example, seniors with specific expertise could teach others about their hobbies or interests. Some centers also partner with local schools to allow interaction between young people and older adults.
Assistance and resources
Many aspects of aging, such as estate planning, can be complex. These require assistance from qualified professionals. Your local senior center counselor can connect you with resources. These referrals can assist with:
• Legal services.
• Navigating health care needs.
• Finding safe, affordable housing.
• Filling out applications and other paperwork.
• Understanding health insurance, such as Medicare.
Exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do as you age to stay fit and support healthy aging. Senior centers offer a range of fitness activities in a supportive, social setting. Exercise classes are tailored to the skills and fitness level of participants. Options include:
• Yoga or chair yoga.
• Tai chi.
• Strength training.
• Dance classes.
• Walking groups.
• Onsite gym or exercise equipment.
Keep learning
You will find many learning opportunities at your local senior center. Senior centers provide information on many aspects of health and wellness. Topics include:
• Nutrition and cooking.
• Management of chronic conditions.
• Early signs of dementia.
• Ways to support mental health.
Nutritious dining
Senior centers provide healthy meals each weekday. These mealtimes provide the opportunity to socialize with your peers.
To find your nearest senior center and learn more about the health and wellness programs offered, call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040.
