Health Care + Life Sciences
TRANSFORMATION CITY »
Showcasing a 'New America'
The Pittsburgh region has survived wrenching economic change and emerged with a balanced, innovation-driven economy renowned for health care and life sciences, technology and robotics, higher education and research, financial services, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy.
NEIGHBORHOODS »
A City Full of Diversity
As a city full of diversity, you will love exploring the culture, food, and atmosphere of Pittsburgh’s 89 unique and ethnically distinctive neighborhoods. Pittsburgh’s downtown is full of the city hustle and bustle, and Squirrel Hill has the quaint charm of a main street-like community. Meanwhile, Oakland, with its many universities, supplies a uniquely intellectual atmosphere. Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and the unique people in them are just waiting for you to come and visit!.
Active Older Adults
Active Older Adults Lend a Helping Hand
Contact: Aaron Billger, +1 412.544.7826, www.highmark.comAward-Winning Volunteer Program Offers Community Service Opportunities to Local Seniors
Senior citizens today are more interested than ever in leading active lifestyles. Highmark Inc. is helping these health-conscious older adults fulfill this need by providing a unique, nationally recognized program that gives them the opportunity to become involved in community service by assisting other older seniors.
Western Pennsylvania is a region well known for having an older population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 16.9 percent of Allegheny County residents are 65 years old and over, compared to a national average of 12 percent.
The PALS (People Able to Lend Support) volunteer program allows active seniors to provide basic nonmedical services such as grocery shopping, transportation to and from appointments, light household chores or giving a caregiver a break, to help other seniors maintain their independence for as long as possible.
PALS has had a strong impact in the community as 52 book clubs in 14 counties have been established, 12 walking clubs within parks and senior high-rises have been formed and numerous quilting clubs have donated lap robes to seniors in nursing facilities. In addition to reducing isolation by providing new outlets to meet new friends, these clubs have had many positive impacts on seniors by enhancing their physical and mental health.
As a result of PALS' positive impact, the 12-year-old program was recently recognized with America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Foundation's 2009 Community Foundation Leadership Award for successfully connecting senior citizens with other seniors in their community and for expanding access to programs that keep seniors active and healthy.
MEDIA »
Media Resources
Get the inside scoop while you report on Pittsburgh. Find story ideas and media contacts that have the information you need to make deadline.
Media Library
Before you file your story, get the finishing touches right here. From still photography to high-definition B-roll, we have the tools you need to make an impact on your audience.
QUALITY OF LIFE »
Life in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is home to a cultural phenomenon celebrating our unique history and the people who make this city special. Surprisingly affordable and very livable, it’s no wonder so many people are choosing to make Pittsburgh home.
