Older Americans Month in Chester & Lancaster Counties

Aging is a journey filled with milestones, memories, and opportunities to live well at every stage of life.

At Griswold Care Pairing, we believe that every senior deserves to thrive independently at home, surrounded by compassionate support and a caring community. Every May, we observe Older Americans Month by honoring the contributions of older adults and renewing our commitment to supporting them.  

This year’s theme, Champion Your Health, emphasizes prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as the foundations of healthy aging. The theme encourages everyone to take an active role in managing their health, advocate for themselves, access preventive care, and make informed decisions to maintain independence.

At Griswold, we’re dedicated to helping seniors stay safe, independent, and enjoy the best possible quality of life at home. We see firsthand how local resources can empower older adults to remain active, connected, and healthy in the place they love most, their own homes.  

This month, we’re excited to highlight opportunities for healthy aging through local Area Agencies on Aging and senior centers in Chester and Lancaster Counties.

Local Resources

Chester County

The West Chester Area Senior Center offers exercise and wellness programs at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels:

• Arthritis Class: Chair class concentrating on individual muscle groups with the use of hand weights and balance exercises. Level One
• Strength & Stretching: Relaxing series of stretches to help you become flexible and strong. Level One.
• Silver Sneakers Classic: Warm-up, combination of resistance bands and weights, balance exercises, and cool down. Level Two.
• Cardio/Core: Hi/Lo Aerobics, cool down followed by core stability exercises. Level Two/Three.
• Total Body Workout: All standing: Warm-up, aerobic movements combined with the use of resistance bands and weights, balance exercises. Level Three.
• Circuit Class: All standing: Stations will be set up utilizing hand weights, resistance bands, light plyometrics, and core training. Level Three.
• Friday Fun Fitness: All standing: Upper body, lower body, cardio, balance.

In addition, WASC provides valuable nutrition and health education resources to support seniors in Chester County:

• Corner Cabinet Cookbook: Features recipes from Nick Harty, a graduate nutrition student at Immaculata University, designed to promote healthy eating habits.
• Pennsylvania Department of Aging Nutrition tips: Guidance on incorporating physical activity and prioritizing whole grains in daily meals.
• Sun Protection and Hydration tips: Educational resources on preventing heat stroke and maintaining proper hydration, especially during warmer months.
• Cholesterol and ‘Know Your Numbers’ Guide: Information to help you understand and manage cholesterol levels for better heart health.
• Health Benefits of the ‘9 Commonalities’: Insights into lifestyle habits associated with healthy aging.
• Cardiovascular Health: Tips and education on supporting heart health through nutrition and activity.
• MIND Diet Recipes: Brain-healthy recipes designed to support cognitive function as we age.
• Additional Education and Awareness: Topics include heat stroke, thyroid health, the benefits of biotin, managing summer allergies, self-defense for seniors, macrobiotic eating, arthritis management, and carpal tunnel prevention.

The YMCA of Greater Brandywine offers the ForeverWell Senior Program for adults 55+, supporting health through group activities, fitness classes, and social events.

Lancaster County

The Lancaster County Office of Aging’s Health and Wellness program promotes healthier lifestyles among older Pennsylvanians by implementing the following:

• Bingocize – Combines the fun game of bingo with exercise and falls prevention education
• Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP)
• Geri-Fit Strength Exercise
• Tai Chi for Arthritis
• Healthy Steps for Older Adults
• Indoor/Outdoor Aquatic Exercises

How Griswold-Referred Caregivers Can Support You

Griswold-referred Caregivers can provide a wide range of non-medical home care services. This includes help with daily routines, mobility support, and companionship that encourages social engagement, like accompanying clients to community events, wellness classes, or simply enjoying a walk in the neighborhood. In addition, we can also help coordinate rides and support participation in local activities, ensuring transportation is never a barrier to connection. Our care plans are always personalized to your goals and needs, bringing peace of mind to your family.

Contact Us

Aging independently doesn’t mean aging alone. With the right resources and compassionate care, seniors in Chester and Lancaster Counties can truly champion their health and enjoy life at home. If you’re interested in learning more about our services or want help connecting with local wellness programs, Griswold Care Pairing is here for you every step of the way.