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Reframing Aging

By 2030, one in three residents of Pennsylvania will be over the age of 60. Instead of fearing aging, we should embrace it! It’s crucial to eliminate ageism from our everyday language and actions — this means changing the way we think and talk about older people and the aging process. We need to share a more complete and positive story about aging. Doing so will help shape policies and programs that benefit everyone as we grow older 

Helpful Resources:

  • PA.GOV/AGING – The Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) works to ensure that older adults across Pennsylvania have access to quality services and support that help them age and live well. 
  • ReframingAging.org – The National Center to Reframe Aging is dedicated to ending ageism by advancing an equitable and complete story about aging in America.   
  • Creative Communities Initiative – The Creative Communities Initiative (CCI) provides multi-year funding for place-based, community-driven, arts-based projects that serve as catalysts for social cohesion, livability, and community and economic development.  
  • Your Local Resources – There are a variety of resources available in every county across the Commonwealth to assist older adults. Whether looking for in-home care, meals, recreation, health and wellness, these local resources can help locate assistance and how to obtain it.

Active, Accessible, Age-Friendly Communities  

Pennsylvania’s recognition as an age-friendly state, along with several cities and areas receiving this designation, is important because it highlights a commitment to meeting the needs of older adults as they age. These age-friendly communities are designed to ensure that older people can live healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives. They focus on creating environments that are inclusive and supportive, with resources and services that improve quality of life. The benefits of these age-friendly environments extend beyond older adults, making the communities better places for people of all ages to live. 

 

Helpful Resources:

Romance Scams   

Online romance scams are a growing concern for senior citizens in Pennsylvania, with scammers often targeting vulnerable individuals seeking companionship. These deceptive schemes can lead to significant financial loss and emotional distress. In response, Pennsylvania is taking steps to raise awareness and provide resources to help seniors recognize and protect themselves from these scams, ensuring they can engage safely in digital spaces and maintain their independence without falling victim to exploitation. 

 

Helpful Resources:

  • National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-372-8311 – If you or someone you know is a victim of elder fraud, call this hotline at 833–FRAUD–11. A case manager will assist you with reporting the crime. 
  • SCAMS – Protect Yourself, Protect Your Money – One of the best ways to protect yourself from financial scams is to be informed. The Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities has created this brochure to include information about some of today’s most common scams, as well as helpful tips to protect yourself and your money. 
  • Scam & Fraud Alerts – Pennsylvanians who suspect benefits fraud should call 1-844-DHS-TIPS