Take a Beat for Cardiovascular Health, February is American Heart Month

If you live in the Pittsburgh area or youve visited here, you understand what people mean when they say the city blends the best of small-town friendliness with the benefits of big-city living.That welcoming atmosphere is also part of what makes Steel City an attractive retirement destination. It offers all the three Cs culture, cuisine, and cost of living in great supply. In this article, weve compiled a list of the top 5 reasons that make Pittsburgh one of the best places to retire in Pennsylvania.#1 Comfortable Cost of LivingWhen deciding whether or not Pittsburgh is the right place to retire for you, its important to consider the financial aspects of the city. Whats the general cost of living, and how does it compare to other locations? Does Pennsylvania tax retirement income?The short answer? Choosing senior living in Pittsburgh, PA, is a smart financial move. In general, the cost of living in Pittsburgh is lower than the national average, and the city, along with the entire Keystone State, offers some notably tax-friendly advantages for retirees. Most retirement income including Social Security income and payments from retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are tax-exempt. Pension income is also exempt from taxes, and when it comes to taxable purchases, from groceries to golf clubs, the states average total sales tax rate is among the 20 lowest in the country.#2 Dont Miss AttractionsIn addition to being kind to your bottom line, retiring in Pittsburgh, PA, presents a world of opportunities for seniors to explore, experience, and grow. Youve earned your freedom and your free time, and the metro area is a place where you can make the most of both! Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium  These two attractions are definitely not a one and done experience. With 77 acres to explore, youll want to visit the zoo and aquarium regularly to browse beautiful, well-designed exhibits that foster understanding, respect, and appreciation of wildlife. Its a wonderful experience for both adults and children perfect for a days adventure with the grandkids. State Parks  If you love the great outdoors, rest assured, Pittsburgh has plenty of wonderful state and municipal parks to enjoy close to home. Whether youre into boating, hiking, biking, kayaking, or even camping, getting your fill of fun will be less than a half-hours drive. Carnegie Museum of Art  Known as the first contemporary art museum in the country, Carnegie Museum of Art likes to refer to its collection as the Old Masters of Tomorrow. Its one of the Pittsburgh regions finest examples of culture and is beloved not only for its 30,000 art objects, but also for its superb interactive programming that allows patrons to engage with the collection. Very cool. The Andy Warhol Museum  Artist Andy Warhol hails from Pittsburgh, PA, and The Andy Warhol Museum celebrates his career with the worlds largest collection of his artworks. In fact, its one of the most comprehensive single-artist museums anywhere. Whether youre a lover of pop art or not, you cant help but be mesmerized by Warhols bold, colorful pieces.#3 Marvelous CuisineFoodies looking to retire in Pittsburghyoure in luck. Pittsburgh dining options score high when it comes to variety, quality, and downright deliciousness. Pittsburghers (yes, thats what theyre called) hold certain dishes in high esteem, including pierogis, square-cut pizza, smiley-face cookies, potato patch fries, chipped chopped ham, and pepperoni rolls. Be sure to put the Strip District on your dining list, too, where you can enjoy the whole gamut of eateries before heading to Station Square for high-end riverfront shopping.Looking to spend time dining close to home? Luxury retirement communities like Friendship Village of South Hills offer the best of both worldsstellar on-site dining and close proximity to the citys downtown restaurants.#4 Excellent Health CareThe Pittsburgh region and its residents are fortunate to have the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center for health care. Its one of the top medical facilities in the country, an important benefit for seniors. For over 15 years, UPMC has ranked among the top 20 best hospitals in America according to U.S. News & World Report hospital Honor Roll. In addition to the flagship hospital, it boasts 40 hospitals in the system, along with 700 clinical locations, including outpatient sites and doctors offices. Living in the Steel City, youll never be far from superior health care.#5 Superb Senior Living at Friendship Village of South HillsThe 5th top reason for retiring in Pittsburgh, PA, is having the pleasure of living in a welcoming community with a resort-like feel and a wonderful carefree attitude. Thats the life that awaits you at Friendship Village of South Hills. You can enjoy an active, vibrant lifestyle and reside in a beautiful independent living- LinkOpens in New Tab apartment. And youll have peace of mind  knowing youve chosen to make your home in a Life Care- LinkOpens in New Tab community that offers higher levels of care if and when your health needs change.A Great Life Awaits You in Pittsburgh Theres so much to love about retiring in Pennsylvania. When you become a resident of Friendship Village of South Hills, all the wonderful experiences the Steel City has to offer will be close at hand. If youd like to learn more about life in our welcoming community, simply complete the form below or click here and well be in touch.

The JAAs Mollies Meals program delivers over 28,000 meals annually to seniors in the Squirrel Hill, Greenfield, and Shadyside areas. Dedicated volunteers bring nutritious meal options directly to the doors of homebound older adults who are unable to prepare their own meals. In addition to providing a hearty meal, these visits also offer a friendly greeting and an opportunity for connection.In partnership with the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, the program ensures that these fresh meals are affordable, thanks to subsidies. Designed to be easily microwaved or frozen for future use, the meals offer flexibility and convenience for the recipients.But dont just take our word for it! Hear from one of our very satisfied customers: I am a relatively active senior but have a difficult time shopping and Im not always motivated to cook for myself. My out-of-town daughter encouraged me to try Mollies Meals. And I am so glad that I did. Now mealtime is a treat! I anxiously await the arrival of my cheerful volunteer who always has an extra minute to visit while she makes sure I am well!  Your meals have truly changed my life and my outlook! I cant thank you enough. PS. My daughter AND my doctor second those words of gratitude!!Mollies Meals isnt just about providing foodits also about the relationships our volunteers build with recipients. These bonds allow our volunteers to notice when something is wrong. For instance, when Chris arrived to deliver Mr. Hs meal, she grew concerned when he hadnt picked up his morning newspaper and wasnt answering his phone. Then, when he didnt answer his door as usual, she contacted the Mollies Meals office. We reached out to his nearby emergency contact who had a key. It turned out Mr. H had fallen and couldnt reach the phone or door. Thanks to our driver, Mr. H was able to get the help he needed. After a few days in the hospital, Mr. H was back on his feet and now wears a life alert button.If you would like to register yourself or a loved one to receive Mollies Meals, or if you would like to become one of our compassionate volunteer deliverers, please call the Mollies Meals office at 412-521-7616.-Sharyn Rubin, MEdDirector of Resident & Community Services

As we gracefully embrace the golden years, it becomes increasingly crucial to prioritize our health and well-being. Maintaining an active and independent lifestyle is within reach if we take proactive steps to protect our bodies from injuries. By adopting a few simple habits and making conscious choices, seniors can enhance their overall physical resilience and savor life to the fullest. Try to incorporate any of the following seven valuable strategies for safeguarding your body and ensuring a healthier and more independent future.The Need to Stay Physically Active as Seniors Get OlderRegular physical activity is the cornerstone of healthy aging. Engaging in low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can improve strength, balance, and flexibility. Incorporate these activities into your daily routine to enhance overall fitness levels and reduce the risk of falls. Remember to consult your healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen. Not sure where to start? CLICK HERE to read Your Everyday Guide to Exercise and Physical Activity from the National Institute on Aging.Prioritize Strength Training to Improve Your Senior FitnessAs we age, maintaining muscle mass becomes increasingly important. Incorporate strength training exercises into your fitness routine to preserve muscle strength and bone density. Resistance bands, light weights, or bodyweight exercises can be beneficial for improving strength and mobility. Seek guidance from a qualified trainer or physical therapist to design a personalized strength training program. Not sure where to start? CLICK HERE to read Growing Stronger: Strength Training for Older Adults from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Maintain a Balanced Diet in Your Golden YearsEating a well-balanced diet is vital for overall health and injury prevention. Ensure that your diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can promote bone health, reducing the risk of fractures. Before starting any new diet, make sure to consult your physician or a registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance based on your specific needs.Protect Your Joints More Important as Seniors AgeJoint health plays a significant role in maintaining mobility and senior independence. To protect your joints, maintain a healthy weight to minimize stress on weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees. Engage in low-impact activities to reduce joint strain. If you experience joint pain or stiffness, consult your doctor for appropriate treatment options.Seniors: You Need to Mind Your Posture!Maintaining good posture is crucial for preventing injuries and minimizing discomfort. Practice proper alignment when sitting, standing, or walking. Use supportive chairs and ergonomic accessories that promote good posture. Engage in exercises that target core strength, which can improve posture and reduce the risk of falls.Create a Safe Living Environment to Age Well at HomeEnsure that your home is a safe haven by making necessary modifications. Remove clutter, secure rugs to prevent slipping, and install handrails in key areas, such as staircases and bathrooms. Adequate lighting throughout the house is essential for preventing falls. Consider utilizing assistive devices like grab bars and non-slip mats to enhance safety.Getting Enough Sleep Boosts Overall Senior HealthQuality sleep is vital for overall health and injury prevention. Aim for seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Maintain a regular sleep routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and avoid stimulating activities close to bedtime. Consult your healthcare professional if you experience sleep-related difficulties. CLICK HERE to read Good Sleep for Good Health from the National Institutes of Health.Staying Socially Engaged Preserves Senior Mental and Physical HealthSocial connections contribute to our mental and emotional well-being, which indirectly affects our physical health. Engage in activities that foster social connections and combat loneliness. Join community groups, clubs, or volunteer organizations that align with your interests. Staying socially active can boost mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall vitality. CLICK HERE to read Best Practices for Helping Older Adults Stay Socially Engaged from the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging.Its Never Too Late for Seniors to Make Positive Lifestyle ChangesBy implementing these strategies, seniors can take proactive steps to protect their bodies from injury and maintain their independence. Prioritizing physical activity, strength training, balanced nutrition, and a safe living environment are fundamental pillars of healthy aging. By adopting these habits and staying socially engaged, seniors can lead fulfilling lives and embrace the joys of independence with confidence and vitality. Remember, its never too late to start making positive changes for your well-being. Embrace the journey.