Department of Aging Commends Senior Centers for Enhancing the Lives of Older Pennsylvanians

STATE COLLEGE, Pa., Oct. 25, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary of Aging Brian Duke today praised members of the Pennsylvania Association of Senior Centers, commending their efforts in providing invaluable community services for older adults. 

"Senior centers play an important role in helping older Pennsylvanians stay healthy by providing programs that concentrate on wellness, nutrition, and prevention," Duke said, speaking at the organization's annual conference in State College.

"Without the dedicated and resourceful staff such as those attending today's conference, many senior centers would not be able to offer services in their communities," Duke added.

The nearly 600 senior community centers throughout Pennsylvania provide a combination of health and wellness activities, preventative programs and nutrition services. Last fiscal year, over 3.5 million nutritious meals were served in centers throughout the state to more than 77,000 eligible persons.

Senior centers provide opportunities for older adults to stay active, continue learning, share experiences, and stay connected with friends and community members. These centers also help older adults gain access to services available through Area Agencies on Aging such as legal assistance, health screening, senior employment and volunteer programs.

This year, four Pennsylvania senior centers were recognized by the National Council on Aging's National Institute of Senior Centers as 2012 Programs of Excellence.

"Pennsylvania Association of Senior Centers provides support for senior center staff and advocacy for older adults who attend their programs," Duke said. "We look forward to working with them to build on the successes of senior centers throughout the state."

For more information on senior centers, visit www.aging.state.pa.us

Media Contact:  Christina Reese 717-783-1549

Editors note:

Pennsylvania senior centers recognized as Programs of Excellence:

Downingtown Area Senior Center, Downingtown, PA
Klein Senior Center, Philadelphia, PA
The Peak Center/Montgomery County Aging & Adult Services, Lansdale, PA
Encore Experiences, Harleysville, PA

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Aging