Thriving at home: PCA supports aging with dignity & independence
Home is more than a place — it’s where life’s most meaningful memories unfold. For many older adults in Philadelphia, the desire to stay in their homes as they age represents a deep connection to independence, community and identity. Turning this vision into reality often requires a network of care and resources. That’s where PCA steps in.
Through a variety of long-term care services, PCA helps older adults navigate the complexities of aging with dignity, comfort and confidence. “The ability to age in place isn’t just a matter of comfort — it’s about dignity and maintaining autonomy,” said Sean Outen, PCA’s director of Long-term Care OPTIONS. “At PCA, we see ourselves as partners in helping people live their best lives at home, surrounded by their community and the things that matter most to them.”
Comprehensive care
PCA’s long-term care services meet older adults where they are, offering personalized solutions that address physical, emotional and practical needs. A cornerstone of this approach is Older Adult Protective Services (OAPS), which safeguards some of Philadelphia’s most vulnerable residents. OAPS investigates reports of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation to ensure that older adults can live free from harm and fear.
Another vital resource is PCA’s OPTIONS Program, which provides in-home care, meal delivery, assistance with daily living activities, medical equipment and supplies, home modifications, and adult day care. With flexibility at its core, OPTIONS tailors services to each person’s unique situation, making aging in place achievable and comfortable.
“The OPTIONS Program is about giving people choices,” Outen said. “It allows them to stay in their homes and communities while receiving the care they need. That is a powerful thing.”
Empowering caregivers
Behind many successful aging-in-place stories is the dedication of family caregivers, who often serve as a lifeline for older adults. PCA’s Caregiver Support Program offers financial assistance, training, and access to resources that help caregivers balance their own needs with the demands of caregiving.
“When we support caregivers, we are really supporting two people — the caregiver and the person they are caring for,” Outen explained. “It is a ripple effect that strengthens the entire community.”
Step by step guidance
PCA’s Long-Term Care Assessment service ensures older adults and their families receive tailored guidance. Trained professionals meet with individuals to assess their needs and connect them with the right services. This personalized approach helps older adults achieve their goals while respecting their independence.
“Our services are not one-size-fits-all,” Outen said. “Each person we help has a unique story, and our job is to craft a plan that respects their individuality while addressing their needs.”
Planning for a bright future
As Philadelphia’s population of older adults continues to grow, so does the need for innovative solutions and partnerships. PCA is committed to meeting these evolving needs by leveraging community resources and exploring new ways to support older adults.
“We’re not just thinking about today’s needs but also about what the future may hold,” Outen said. “Aging is not something to fear — it is a journey. And with the right support, it can be a fulfilling and empowering chapter of life.”
Through its programs — like OAPS, OPTIONS, caregiver support, and personalized assessments — PCA provides a robust safety net that helps older adults thrive in the places they call home.
As Outen reflects on his 35 years of service at PCA, his pride is clear. “At the end of the day, it’s about people— their stories, their struggles and their successes,” he said. “To be a part of that is a privilege.”
For more information about PCA’s long-term care services, visit pcaCares.org or call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040.
