Health and Wellness

PCA partners with community organizations to develop and present programs that provide information, education, skill building, screenings and support for older adults. Programs cover a wide range of topics, including management of chronic conditions, medication management, preventing falls, exercise and nutrition. Most programs are evidence-based, meaning that they have been tested and proven to produce positive results. The goal is to empower older adults to improve their own health and reduce the risk of dependency, disability and illness.

Many programs are led by trained volunteers called lay leaders who successfully manage health problems themselves. Programs are open to Philadelphians age 60 and older, and are offered at sites throughout the city, including senior centers, libraries and other community settings.

Remote Health Self-Management Programs Are Available during COVID-19

Want to better self-manage your chronic pain or diabetes? Register for an upcoming virtual workshop through PCA! These workshops are FREE for those in Philadelphia age 60+! Each program runs for six weeks and meets weekly via Zoom. All participants will receive a Self-Management Tool Kit in the mail containing program supplies.

See descriptions and details for each six-week program below. If you’re interested in learning more, or ready to register, please contact Stephen Merrill, PCA’s Health Promotion Nurse Supervisor at 215-765-9000 ext. 5123 or Stephen.Merrill@pcacares.org.

Common Threads: Diabetes Self-Management Program (Held via Zoom):
Tuesdays, September 21, 28, October 5, 12, 19, and 26
Time: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Participants will learn tips and strategies to take charge of their chronic conditions such as heart disease, arthritis and lung disease. Topics include dealing with fatigue, working with health providers, physical activity, addressing poor sleep, problem solving and becoming more involved in everyday activities. Download flyer >>

Help Yourself to Health: Chronic Pain Self-Management Program (Held via Zoom):
Thursdays, September 30, and October 7,14, 21 & 28 and November 4
Time: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Walk With Ease Program

The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease (WWE) program is an evidence-based, six-week program. This walking program is designed to reduce arthritis pain, increase balance and strength, and improve overall health. Through a partnership with Osteoarthritis Action Alliance (OAA), the Arthritis Foundation WWE program offers a self-directed format for participants to use independently and work at their own pace.

For more information, visit the Arthritis Foundations’ website by clicking here.

Host a Workshop or Become a Lay leader

Requirements to become a host site:	Qualifications to be a lay leader:
If your organization is interested in becoming a host site, please contact PCA’s Community Services department at 215-765-9000 ext. 5134. Host sites are expected to recruit 20 – 25 participants for each workshop Sites must provide a dedicated space, with tables and chairs, to comfortably accommodate 20-25 people; and a designated space to store supplies. Space must be available for six 2-1/2 hour workshop sessions Sites must provide a contact list of participants Sites are expected to provide snacks/refreshments	Must have at least one chronic health condition Must be literate and able to follow a detailed, scripted manual Must have experience with, and be comfortable talking to groups Motivation to lead should come from wanting to serve others, not to earn money

Requirements to become a host site:

Qualifications to be a lay leader:

If your organization is interested in becoming a host site, please contact PCA’s Community Services department at 215-765-9000 ext. 5134.

Host sites are expected to recruit 20 – 25 participants for each workshop
Sites must provide a dedicated space, with tables and chairs, to comfortably accommodate 20-25 people; and a designated space to store supplies.
Space must be available for six 2-1/2 hour workshop sessions
Sites must provide a contact list of participants
Sites are expected to provide snacks/refreshments

Must have at least one chronic health condition
Must be literate and able to follow a detailed, scripted manual
Must have experience with, and be comfortable talking to groups
Motivation to lead should come from wanting to serve others, not to earn money

Frequently Asked Questions for Host Sites and Lay Leaders

How many people will attend the workshop?

A maximum of 20 people. The program works best with 16-20 people.

Will I be compensated for volunteering as a lay leader?

Each site determines whether or not a stipend will be offered to volunteer lay leaders.

Is transportation provided?

Transportation is not provided.

What is a “zero” session?

A zero session is an introduction and orientation to the workshop, which takes place before the first session of the 6-week workshop series.

How will I be notified and scheduled to facilitate a workshop?

You will be contacted by PCA staff or by a collaborating organization when your services are needed. Once confirmed, a letter with instructions will follow.
If you are interested in becoming lay leader, please contact PCA’s Program Management Department at 215-765-9000 ext. 5134.

Health and Wellness

Remote Health Self-Management Programs Are Available during COVID-19

Remote Health Self-Management Programs Are Available during COVID-19

Walk With Ease Program

Walk With Ease Program

Host a Workshop or Become a Lay leader

Requirements to become a host site:

Qualifications to be a lay leader:

Requirements to become a host site:

Qualifications to be a lay leader:

Frequently Asked Questions for Host Sites and Lay Leaders

How many people will attend the workshop?

Will I be compensated for volunteering as a lay leader?

Is transportation provided?

What is a “zero” session?

How will I be notified and scheduled to facilitate a workshop?

Become a Senior Companion

Lead a Chronic Disease Self-Management Course

Become a Volunteer Ombudsman

Stay Involved by Volunteering!