BS, Dietetics and Nutrition
Are you a senior in Pennsylvania looking to take control of your health? Perhaps you’re a family member seeking the best resources for your loved one. Pennsylvania offers plenty of wellness programs designed to help older adults thrive physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. Discover the top wellness programs for seniors in the state, along with how to choose the perfect fit for your needs and goals.
What Are the Top Wellness Programs for Seniors in Pennsylvania?
Experts predict the U.S. population of adults 65 or older will reach 88.8 million by 2060. Wellness programs are an important part of serving this rapidly growing community as well as adults in their fifties. These are the top eight wellness programs for seniors in Pennsylvania.
| Organization | Programs | Benefits |
| Messiah Lifeways | Adult Day program and Lifelong Learning program | Provides holistic wellness programsOffers services like psychological counseling and outpatient rehabilitationIncludes a beauty salon |
| National Council on Aging | Wellness Initiative for Senior Education program | Teaches older adults about safe medication useMotivates participants to embrace healthy agingOffers instruction in English and Spanish |
| Friends Life Care | Holistic Health & Wellness program | Provides holistic wellness services to improve quality of lifeOffers membership plans to help improve and maintain independenceIncludes free informational seminars and webinars for members and nonmembers |
| Senior Community Services | Watercolor painting, acrylic painting, cardio drumming, chair Zumba, Gold Zumba, healthy eating class, and book club | Offers courses tailored to different interestsProvides comprehensive senior services, including care management and independent living assistance |
| Philadelphia Corporation for Aging | Chronic Disease Self-Management Education and Support (CDSMES) programs, Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease (WWE) program, and EnhanceFitness program | Provides classes in various PCA-funded senior centersOffers evidence-based programs, which are proven to yield positive results |
| Geri-Fit Company | Geri-Fit, Geri-Fit online, Geri-Flex, Geri-Fit private lessons, and body sculpting | Provides evidence-based programs for older adultsOffers free strength training exercises you can do at home to maintain good physical health |
| The North Penn YMCA | Arthritis exercise program, adult aquatics, and walking club | Features plenty of health programs to choose fromIncludes a mobile app where you can track and record workouts, earn points for prizes, and participate in fun activities |
| Hempfield Township Parks & Recreation | Chair yoga, pickleball, and Zumba toning | Offers plenty of wellness programs and activities supervised by trained instructors Provides an opportunity for family bonding |
Explore a more detailed explanation of each organization and its program offerings.
1. Messiah Lifeways’ Adult Day Program and Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning
Nonprofit organization Messiah Lifeways provides community services for older adults ages 55 and up in the central Pennsylvania region. It believes in embracing aging as a time of purpose and faith-filled living. It offers two wellness programs for seniors — the Adult Day program and the Lifelong Learning program.
Adult Day Program
The Adult Day program offers enriching and uplifting activities for seniors who need companionship when their caregivers deal with other responsibilities during the day. It provides wellness opportunities like music therapy, exercises, games, cooking, gardening, Bible studies, music entertainment and nutritious meals.
Lifelong Learning Program
Older adults in the Lifelong Learning program attend lectures, courses and cultural enrichment events in various locations. The program’s goal is to help individuals find meaning in their talents and abilities by engaging in mental, cultural and spiritual activities. Learning new things can help seniors stay curious and engaged with the world, leading to a more fulfilling life.
2. National Council on Aging’s Wellness Initiative for Senior Education Program
The Wellness Initiative for Senior Education program from the National Council on Aging helps older adults embrace healthy lifestyle choices. Enrolled participants learn how to make smarter choices for themselves and examine how medications and alcohol can affect their bodies in the long run.
After finishing the program, older adults may experience improvements in physical and psychological well-being. They may also engage in positive health care behaviors and medication management.
3. Friends Life Care’s Holistic Health & Wellness Program
The wellness program at Friends Life Care targets older adults’ physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness. According to the organization, this holistic approach can help reduce the risks of health complications. The program offers workshops, one-on-one interactions, webinars, member meetings, wellness assessments and in-home accessibility evaluations.
Program participants reported experiencing better cognitive skills, stronger social connections, greater feelings of hope and a renewed sense of self-worth.
4. Senior Community Services’ Center Without Walls Program
Older adults in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, have few options for physical senior centers. However, Senior Community Services offers wellness programs. The organization’s Center Without Walls program features various courses that help improve participants’ creativity, lifestyle choices and physical health.
Art Courses
Senior Community Services offers watercolor and acrylic painting classes for older adults interested in learning or honing their art skills. These lessons provide cognitive stimulation and a sense of accomplishment.
Fitness Courses
Seniors have access to cardio drumming, chair Zumba, and Zumba Gold.
Cardio drumming involves making drumming motions while listening to upbeat music. Chair Zumba engages your body through sitting, dancing and working out to improve flexibility and strength. Zumba Gold is one of the most popular fitness courses. It pairs fitness with Latin music — like merengue and salsa — for improved flexibility and strength.
Healthy Eating Course
This nutritional workshop teaches older adults to cook and eat nutritious foods for longevity.
Book Club
Social wellness is key to a happy, healthy life. A book club provides a safe space for book discussions and sharing. Reading keeps the brain active, and discussing it with like-minded people improves social interaction.
5. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Health and Wellness Programs
The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging offers various health and wellness programs for older adults. Trained community volunteers lead all the courses, which are free for Philadelphia County residents ages 60 and up. The organization’s mission is to help seniors achieve their best health through education and self-management.
Chronic Disease Self-Management Education and Support (CDSMES) Programs
Register for this program if you or a family member has a chronic health illness like heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis. The CSDMES programs are designed to help you or your loved one manage health issues with confidence.
Walk With Ease Program
Arthritis can make walking difficult due to stiffness, pain and reduced range of motion. The Walk With Ease program is an evidence-based, six-week exercise workshop where older adults learn to walk independently. Training leaders help set walking goals so students can enjoy walking more.
EnhanceFitness Program
This wellness workshop is an evidence-based program that’s open year-round and twice a week at Philadephia Corporation for Aging-funded senior centers. Each class includes warm-ups, balance exercises, cardio, weights and stretching.
6. Geri-Fit Company’s Geri-Fit Program
Well-known for its Geri-Fit fitness workshop, Geri-Fit Company is an evidence-based wellness program for self-managing chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. The program teaches strength training to help build muscle and strength so older adults can better perform daily activities. Participants use light dumbbell weights, a stretch band and a chair during the workout. There’s no dancing or floorwork involved, making it ideal for older adults with mobility issues.
The organization also offers Geri-Flex — a 30-minute stretching program that combines pilates, ballet, Tai Chi and yoga. Participants are required to get on the mat and use stretch bands to improve joint mobility, balance, flexibility and muscular strength.
If you’re looking for a private program, consider private Geri-Fit lessons. Personalized training allows you or your loved one to work one-on-one with a certified training specialist and address unique concerns involving mobility, balance and functional capacity.
7. The North Penn YMCA’s Senior Programs
The North Penn YMCA offers health and fitness programs focusing on flexibility, mobility, safety and overall health. It conducts group classes, allowing participants to meet and mingle. It offers various courses and clubs. The organization uploads free workout videos to YouTube, making it ideal for members who prefer to stay at home.
Arthritis Exercise Program
This workshop features low-impact activities to reduce joint stiffness and pain. Exercises are suitable for all fitness levels, with seated and standing options available.
Adult Aquatics
These lessons are designed for swimmers and non-swimmers who want to be more comfortable in the water.
Walking Club
Consider joining a walking club to explore the local community and discover new places. This club provides opportunities to socialize and connect with others, which can improve mental well-being. Walks happen every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Peace Valley Park.
8. Hempfield Township Parks & Recreation’s Senior Programs
The senior programs at Hempfield Township Parks & Recreation involve physical activities, such as chair yoga, pickleball and Zumba.
Chair Yoga
This activity offers numerous benefits for seniors, including improved strength and flexibility. It’s a restorative form of yoga that involves gentle poses like side twists and bends.
Intro to Pickleball
Pickleball is open to anyone, including older adults. This program teaches you or your loved one the basics of the fast-growing racquet sport.
Zumba Toning
Zumba toning involves movements that help tone and sculpt the muscles. Participants use light hand weights to enhance the strength aspect of the usual routine.
Choosing the Right Wellness Program for Seniors
There are senior wellness programs that cater to different interests, abilities, and needs.
With plenty of wellness programs available, it can be challenging to find the right one. Understanding the benefits and knowing what to look for can make the process easier.
Consider these factors when selecting the right program for you or your loved one.
1. Activities
Different types of programs offer a variety of activities. From painting to dance, participants can engage in an already well-loved hobby or start something new. Find a program that aligns with your own or your loved one’s interests and curiosities.
Take health needs and goals into account as well. Chair yoga can help alleviate flexibility issues, while walking groups enhance overall health and provide an opportunity for social connection. Depending on your needs, a more targeted program may benefit you rather than a more rounded, holistic workshop.
2. Cost
Most senior wellness programs are free or low-cost. Even so, make sure you understand any associated costs for participation in all or select activities. Evaluate the wellness program’s cost and see if it fits within your budget. Some organizations offer free workshops once you pass certain requirements.
3. Location
Find a program with a convenient location or multiple locations. Some programs offer digital services as well through online resources or mobile apps, making it easier to participate from anywhere.
The location can affect you or your loved one’s overall experience. If possible, visit the facility to observe the activities and meet the staff and participants. Keep an eye out for safety features and overall atmosphere. Consider transportation options, parking availability and accessibility features like ramps and elevators.
4. Health-Related Services
If you are looking for particular health-related services, include that in your search. Some programs offer health-related benefits that are applicable to everyone — like counseling — while some programs provide personally tailored support for seniors with conditions such as arthritis or diabetes.
Consider how recreational activities align with health-related needs. For instance, if you or your loved one experiences mobility issues, some types of activities may be easier than others. Look for a program that suits your needs.
5. Reputation
Seek advice from other seniors in your community. Finding a program that is well-recommended can put you at ease. Plus, you may see a few friendly faces if you get recommendations from those you know. You can also visit an organization’s website to search for testimonials. People’s insights can help you in your decision-making process.
Stay Fit and Healthy As You Age
The journey to better well-being is a continuous one, and these wellness programs are a fantastic starting point for seniors in Pennsylvania. The right workshop for you is the one that aligns with your unique needs, goals and preferences. Take the first step toward a happier, healthier you and contact the organizations that pique your interest.
