Philadelphia is home to 257,303 older adults over the age of 60+ of which approximately 9,730 (16.97%) call the neighborhoods of Germantown and East Falls their home (Aging).  Germantown, often called the "Greene Country Towne", is the ideal community affording older adults a better quality of life where they live, work and play.  Nestled among vibrant open green spaces, are abundant parks and tree-lined streets all of which contribute to the "walkability and the mobility" of the community. New curbs and sidewalks, street trees, ambient lighting and state of the art pedestrian traffic lights physically enhance the main business corridor improving public safety, accessibility and comfort ability.  Public transportation is abundant, convenient, runs frequently and older adults are eligible for discounts from SEPTA and AMTRACK.

According to the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA), the area agency for aging, the older population in the city is growing more diverse and complex each year, with more than 70% of seniors owning their own homes and an increasing number of frail elderly with multiple conditions on the rise (Aging). PCA (www.pcacares.org) was established to plan, advocate, develop, coordinate and deliver programs, services and resources to more than 100,000 consumers annually.  Each year PCA contracts with faith-based and community organizations such as Northwest Interfaith Movement (www.roalanim.org) and senior centers, Center in the Park (www.centerinthepark), energy centers, community development corporations, elected officials and city, state and federal agencies to help Germantown individuals and families access resources to support the older population.

Germantown offers extraordinary opportunities for learning and exploration by older adults. The older adult population is highly educated, 35% have Bachelor's degrees compared to 17% city-wide. Intergenerational programs, counseling, community education classes and forums, assistance for immigrants, inter-faith programs and community supports are among the initiatives underway.

Come to Germantown to experience artsand culture, recreation and open spaces, take a class or two at our schools, universities and community institutions, take good care of yourself by visiting our hospitals, health care centers and local physicians and dentists, volunteer to give back to the community, take a day to visit our 15 historic sites, join a support group, and interact with a community that embraces intergenerational, racial and cultural differences. By all means, choose to live, work or play in Germantown. Take advantage of the many housing, recreation and cultural options offered. Germantown supports older adults sense of purpose, dignity and value.

(Aging) Neighborhood Profile for East Falls and Germantown, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging