Not only does this National Preparedness Month focus on preparing older adults for disasters — it’s also National Senior Center Month! Senior centers provide practical resources and serve as a hub for older adults to find community and connection. In observance of September’s themes, we thought we’d partner with the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging and Mayor’s Commission on Aging to help you take control in 1,2,3! Below are highlights of the fantastic resources available to our older adult community here in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA)

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s mission is to improve the quality of life for older Philadelphians and people with disabilities and to assist them in achieving their maximum level of health, independence, and productivity. PCA believes the best emergency preparedness is prevention. Some of the services and resources they would like to highlight for you this National Preparedness Month include:

  • The PCA Helpline. People can call the Helpline for help meeting their basic needs including free help to apply for public benefits ranging from food stamps to energy assistance, to Property Tax/Rent rebates. The PCA Helpline is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for major holidays. Call (215) 765-9040.
  • Senior centers. PCA helps fund 28 senior community centers and satellite meal sites in neighborhoods throughout the city. Each senior center offers unique programming that promotes socialization and healthy lifestyles. Attendees can connect to various programs and services at their local senior center, including transportation, legal assistance, and volunteer opportunities. Find a senior center.

Mayor’s Commission on Aging

The Mayor’s Commission on Aging serves seniors in Philadelphia with programs and information to enhance their quality of life. Older adults and their caretakers can get these services by contacting the Mayor’s Commission on Aging at (215) 686-8450. Some of the services and resources include:

  • Access to benefits and programs.
  • Employment and financial services.
  • Access to food and meal delivery.
  • Health and senior centers.
  • Housing security (foreclosure prevention).

We encourage you to share this information with your older adult friends, family, or neighbors who may need additional support or if you are an older adult yourself, engage your support network. Reaching out to family, friends, and neighbors can help you build a support network that can support you before, during, and after a disaster or emergency. It’s important to share your emergency plan with those whom you’ve chosen to be in your personal support network and practice that plan with them! A reliable and trustworthy partner in your network could be a senior center in your community. Remember, well-connected communities are more resilient. Make a difference this National Preparedness Month!