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Winter 2025/26
A Timeless Hobby Bringing Purpose and Creativity to Retirement Also in this Issue...
Last minute Gift Ideas | Do You Really Need a Fiduciary? Westmoreland County Events | Life Options Pittsburgh
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Phone: 724-940-2444 Email: info@westmorelandfiftyfiveplus.com www.westmorelandfiftyfiveplus.com
4 Featured on the cover owner of Brady’s Train Outlet John A. Brady
Contents 4
Cover Story: A Timeless Hobby Bringing Purpose and Creativity to Retirement Emily King
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Do You Really Need a Fiduciary? Kevin Bock, Owner, Integrity Retirement Solutions
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Independence Health System Nationally Recognized for Specialty Care Excellence by Healthgrades
10 Local Businesses 15 Life Options Pittsburgh 16 Brightening Your Mood Through a Pittsburgh Winter Kathy Thompson, Senior Care Authority 18
Westmoreland County Events
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Winter 2025/26 | Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus
President & Publisher Laura Lyn Arnold Publisher Emeritus & Contributor Marion Swanson Piotrowski Westmoreland 55+ Publication Manager Sharon Yezerski
Sharon@WestmorelandFiftyFivePlus.com
Executive Editor Emily King Managing Editor/Public Relations Coordinator Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive Mary L. Simpson Joanne Good Tracy Dripps Design & Production Kostilnik & Assoc. Graphics, Inc. Web Master Swanson Publishing, LLC Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine is published four times a year by Swanson Publishing, LLC (P.O. Box 425, Mars, PA 16046, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge throughout the Westmoreland County area. Subscriptions can be purchased from the publisher at $35 for one year. The mission of Swanson Publishing, LLC is to connect the people of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest senior publication, Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine. The publication is dedicated to supporting the people, communities, and the educational, religious, health, travel, and recreational needs of seniors in our region. The contents of Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.
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COVER STORY
Timeless Hobby Bringing Purpose and Creativity to Retirement By Emily King
Engaging in a hobby is more than just fun and games: it can keep your brain and body healthy for longer. A large-scale study conducted by University College London in 2023 found that participating in a hobby is linked to fewer depressive symptoms and higher levels of happiness, as well as selfreported health and life satisfaction among people age 65 and older. According to the National Institute on Aging, hobbies may lower your risk for dementia, heart disease and stroke, and some types of cancer. They can even help increase lifespan. Model train building, a classic pastime that has captivated generations of hobbyists, provides countless health benefits. The Past and Future of Model Trains
Model trains first started appearing in the late 1800s; they were usually hand-built, expensive toys reserved for the children of wealthier families. The hobby became more accessible in the early 1900s with mass-produced models from brands like Lionel and Hornby. From the 1960s to 1980s, interest in train building shifted to more of an adult hobby. Some may perceive model trains to be “old-fashioned,” but there has been a recent
rise in popularity, possibly because retired baby boomers finally have more time to dedicate to a hobby they loved as children. Interest is also growing among younger generations. The global model train market was estimated at $1.2 billion in 2023 and is predicted to grow to about $1.9 billion by 2032. The team at Brady’s Train Outlet in Greensburg has seen this interest firsthand. The shop has been in business for over fifty years and has become a destination for model train enthusiasts. They hold the title of Western PA’s largest train store and carry everything from collectible pre-owned vintage trains and parts to brand-new models with the latest technology. Brady’s Train Outlet was started by John A. Brady, a model train enthusiast who had been selling trains since the 1970s. He began his business in his basement before expanding as demand grew. He traveled across the eastern United States, making connections through the shared love of the hobby. As his business expanded, he opened a brick-andmortar store in the 1990s.
A Connection to the Past
Brady’s customer base spans several generations, but they particularly notice the benefits of the hobby in their older visitors. For many, model trains offer a connection to the past. With the huge popularity of model train
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Winter 2025/26 | Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus
toys for children in the 1950s and 60s, many of today’s retirees played with trains growing up and have strong feelings of nostalgia tied to them. Brady’s even has a section on their website dedicated to “Postwar Trains,” featuring Lionel electric trains produced from 1945–1969. Of course, model railroads aren’t just about the trains. The process of designing and building the scene gives the builder creative license to recreate meaningful moments in their life. “Sometimes it helps older people reminisce about important moments or people in their life, such as their childhood hometown or their father or grandfather who worked on the railroads,” says Steph Zemba, Brady’s marketing and customer service manager.
Physical Benefits
Maintaining an active lifestyle is crucial to good health. Being active doesn’t require spending hours at the gym. Even light activity has major health benefits. Building model trains involves natural movement — sitting and standing, light lifting, adjusting parts — all without the high risk of injury or falling.
Mental Health Benefits
Model train building is not dependent on the weather, which is ideal for a region with long stretches of cloudy, rainy, or snowy days.
Older people are at risk for seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression linked to shorter daylight hours. Model trains can be a welcome distraction during winter months when outdoor activities are limited. It’s common for recently retired adults to face a period of adjustment after leaving decades-long careers. Delving into a new hobby can restore a sense of purpose and provide new goals. “One customer shared with us that after he retired from his job, he didn’t know what else to do. He found model trains and it brought him a sense of purpose, improving his mood and giving him something to look forward to every day,” says Zemba. Hobbies can trigger a “flow state” — that feeling of being completely absorbed in an activity where time seems to disappear. Flow activities reduce stress, increase happiness, improve self-esteem, and enhance creativity.
Cognitive Benefits
Model train building is an active hobby and a great way to keep fine motor skills sharp. Handling tiny figures, configuring electric components, and adding details to scenery all require focus and precision. Tools like magnifying glasses and tweezers can help.
where they can find people with similar interests,” says Zemba. Local clubs include Pittsburgh Independent Hi-Railers, McKeesport Model Railroad Club, Laurel Highlands Model Railroad Club, and Fort Pitt Hi-Railers. The Train Collectors Association (TCA) Fort Pitt Division offers events, sales, meetings, and shows. The Greensberg’s Great Train and Toy Show — the northeast’s largest and longest-running train show — will be at the Monroeville Convention Center January 3–4. Local train stores like Brady’s help people connect with the model train community. The team doesn’t just sell merchandise; they offer education, troubleshooting, and repair services. “We offer a welcoming community for all ages, skills, and experience levels,” says Zemba. If in-person participation isn’t possible, the online community is vast. Facebook groups and forums allow hobbyists to connect with enthusiasts around the world.
Family Connection
Many hobbyists enjoy the historical aspect of model trains and spend time learning about specific trains, eras, or railroad history. Research and reading help maintain cognitive health. Building a model railroad requires planning, whether detailed track layouts designed with software or simple sketches. And, like many hobbies, there is always more to learn — new techniques, technologies, electrical skills, and artistic approaches to scenery design.
Social Benefits
The model train community is thriving. There are clubs, meetups, and shows in almost every city. Joining a club provides routine social interaction, which can reduce cognitive decline, lower blood pressure, and improve overall well-being. “We have a lot of customers who are friends with each other and come into the store regularly. Model railroading also encourages older adults to step outside their comfort zone and access online communities
One of the greatest joys of model railroading is sharing the hobby with loved ones. Zemba and the team often see customers building layouts with grandchildren, siblings, or spouses. “Recently, a retiree purchased a train set to make a train layout with his newly adopted grandchildren. This is something they will be able to spend hours working on together,” says Zemba. “He brought them to the store and let them pick out items for the layout.” Model train building is also a hobby spouses can share, providing a point of connection and creativity.
Getting Started
Whether model trains are new to you or a hobby you set aside decades ago, it’s easy to jump back in. Brady’s can recommend starter sets that include a track and transformer at a reasonable price. “The financial element of the hobby is a broad spectrum. You can start off with a used set for less than $100,” says Zemba. “Our summertime tent sales are a great way to add to any collection or get started at a low price point. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good time!” Today, there are endless YouTube tutorials covering everything from beginner basics
to advanced technology. And, of course, the team at Brady’s is always ready to help. Model railroading is more than a pastime; it’s a way to connect, foster creativity, and support well-being. Whether it recon-
Did you know?
• The first known working model railway was built in 1859 for Napoleon III’s son. • Lionel introduced its first electric model train in 1901—and it became one of the most iconic American toys of the century. • During the 1950s, model trains were so popular that some department stores dedicated entire floors to elaborate holiday train displays. • The National Model Railroad Association says model railroading is “a social hobby for all ages”—with clubs and meets in nearly every U.S. state. • Today’s digital train systems can run multiple locomotives independently, complete with realistic sounds, LED lights, and smartphone controls. • The global model-train market is projected to reach nearly $2 billion by 2032, signaling strong interest in the hobby.
nects you with your past, introduces you to new friends, or offers a fresh challenge, this timeless hobby gives older adults a meaningful way to stay active and engaged. With local resources like Brady’s Train Outlet, there has never been a better time to start building your own miniature world. n
1046 S. Main St. Greensburg, PA 15601 724-838-8448 store 724-420-3808
Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus
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ADVERTORIAL
Do You Really Need a Fiduciary? by Kevin Bock, Integrity Retirement Solutions, LLC
A fiduciary is someone who manages money or property for someone else. When you’re named a fiduciary and accept the role, you must, by law, manage the person’s money and property for their benefit, not yours.
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Winter 2025/26 | Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus
e’ve all heard the word fiduciary; on commercials, at seminars, in financial ads. But what does it truly mean for you and your future? At its core, a fiduciary is someone legally and ethically bound to put your interests first. Not sometimes. Not when it’s convenient. Always. But here’s the challenge: regulations and rules keep changing, yet the number of professionals who genuinely operate with a client-first mindset isn’t growing. And that’s because true fiduciary behavior has little to do with laws—it starts with who the advisor is at heart. For 36 years, we’ve acted like fiduciaries because it’s simply the right thing to do. It’s what we believe in, not what we are forced to follow. But today, being a true fiduciary requires much more than good intentions. Retirement and estate planning have grown complex, and most advisors focus only on one sliver of your financial life. That’s not enough when you’re planning for income you can’t outlive, rising healthcare costs, taxes, asset protection, and leaving a legacy that actually reaches your heirs.
Ask yourself:
• Can your advisor explain guaranteed lifetime income options, not in general terms, but with depth and clarity? • Can they walk you through real tax-reduction strategies, not just rehearse a convenient disclaimer?
• Can they help you prepare for healthcare costs that Fidelity estimates could reach $315,000 for the average couple, not even counting long-term care? • Do they know how to leverage your current assets to offset those future costs? • Can they coordinate the legal documents you need, working directly with a qualified estate planning attorney? • Do they understand trusts, asset protection, and efficient wealth transfer? • Can they see and protect the full picture of everything you’ve built? For most people, the answer is no. That’s why so many turn to Integrity Retirement Solutions, LLC. We bring all the critical pieces of retirement and estate planning together under one roof: income planning, tax strategy, legal coordination, healthcare planning, business succession, insurance solutions, and more. You don’t have to juggle multiple professionals who may or may not communicate with each other. You get one cohesive, coordinated plan designed around your goals. If you or someone you care about needs guidance from a team that chooses to act like fiduciaries because it’s who we are, we’re here to help. Call us at 724-837-3553 with any questions. n
Your future deserves clarity, confidence, and a plan built entirely around you!
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Voted Six Years in a Row as Best Financial Planner in Westmoreland County. CALL US TO FIND OUT WHY. Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Independence Health System Nationally Recognized for Specialty Care Excellence by Healthgrades Independence Health System hospitals lauded for 15 Clinical Achievements for exceptional performance, including America’s Best Honors in Coronary Interventional Procedures and Joint Replacement
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ndependence Health System announced today that it has once again earned numerous accolades for exceptional clinical performance from Healthgrades, the leading resource consumers use when searching for a doctor or hospital.
WVU Medicine to Welcome Independence Health System in 2026
WVU Health System and Independence Health System have announced plans for Independence Health System’s five hospitals—Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe, and Westmoreland—to officially join WVU Medicine in fall 2026. As part of the agreement, WVU Medicine will invest $800 million over five years to modernize facilities, enhance clinical programs, expand specialty services, and strengthen access to high-quality care across Western Pennsylvania. Leadership from both organizations emphasized their shared commitment to communityfocused healthcare, financial stability, and expanding advanced services close to home. The affiliation will also support coordinated population health initiatives and broaden patient access to WVU Medicine’s extensive academic health resources. This marks a significant step forward for the region’s healthcare landscape, promising longterm growth, innovation, and improved patient outcomes.
Read the full press release on our website: www.westmorelandfiftyfiveplus.com for complete details.
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Among the health system’s most recent honors are two distinctions as America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Specialty Care, three Specialty Excellence Awards, and nine Five-Star Distinctions. These achievements place Independence Health System among the nation’s leading hospitals for specialty care and highlight the organization’s unwavering commitment to consistently delivering exceptional patient outcomes. In addition to these national honors, Westmoreland Hospital was ranked the No. 1 hospital in Pennsylvania for coronary intervention and is the only hospital in the Commonwealth to receive the America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Coronary Intervention™ designation for three consecutive years (2024-2026). Westmoreland Hospital has ranked among the top 5% in the nation for coronary interventional procedures for the past three years and is named among the top 10% in the nation for cardiology services for the past five years (20222026). These achievements further affirm Westmoreland Hospital’s status as a premier destination for specialty cardiovascular care and underscore the organization’s longstanding commitment to excellent patient care. “These recognitions reflect the extraordinary dedication of our entire team to delivering high-quality, compas-
Winter 2025/26 | Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus
sionate care,” said Brian Fritz, president of Independence Health System’s Frick, Latrobe and Westmoreland hospitals. “We are proud to be acknowledged among the nation’s top hospitals and remain committed to advancing excellence in patient outcomes across every specialty we serve.” Independence Health System Westmoreland Hospital was also recognized as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement™ and received Five-Star Distinctions in coronary interventional procedures, treatment of heart attack, total knee replacement and total hip replacement. In addition, Westmoreland Hospital earned the Healthgrades Coronary Intervention Excellence Award™ and the Joint Replacement Excellence Award™ - placing it among the top 10% in the nation for joint replacement for three consecutive years (2024-2026). Independence Health System Latrobe Hospital received Five-Star Distinctions in treatment of heart attack, treatment of stroke, colorectal surgeries and treatment of sepsis. Latrobe Hospital maintained its Five-Star distinction for the treatment of sepsis for 13 consecutive years (20142026). “These achievements place our hospitals among the top in the nation— and in some cases, the very best in
Pennsylvania—for heart, joint and critifacilities, seeking care at a top program has cal care outcomes,” said Ken DeFurio, never been more important. Healthgrades’ president and CEO of Independence 2026 analysis revealed that if all hospitals, Health System. “Just as importantly, they as a group, performed similarly to fiveaffirm that Independence Health System star hospitals during the 2022-2024 study continues to deliver outcomes that exceed period, on average, 230,466 lives could expectations for the patients who entrust have been saved and 156,797 complicaus with their care. On behalf of our entire tions could have been avoided.* leadership team, I extend my sincere “Healthgrades’ specialty awards idengratitude for the unwavering dedication tify the nation’s top-performing hospitals and contributions of our staff. Your comin key service areas, helping consumers mitment to our patients and communities find high quality care tailored to their is the foundation of our success.” specific needs,” said Alana Biggers, MD, Each year, Healthgrades evaluates MPH, medical advisor at Healthgrades. risk-adjusted mortality and complica“We’re proud to recognize Independence tion rates for over 30 common conditions Health System for its consistently superior and procedures at approximately 4,500 outcomes.” hospitals nationwide to identify the top Consumers can visit Healthgrades’ hospitals in key specialty areas. Through Specialty Excellence Patient Advocate easy-to-understand, objective measures Center to learn more about how of hospital performance, Healthgrades Healthgrades identifies the top-performempowers patients with the information ing hospitals for specialty care. n they need to find a hospital that excels in *Statistics are based on Healthgrades analysis their procedure or condition. of MedPAR data for years 2022 through 2024 As performance gaps persist between and represent three-year estimates for Medicare 1 11/12/25 5:23 PM patients only. the nation’sai176298622614_IHS_WHLH_Healthgrades_7.25x4.75_11-25.pdf highest- and lowest-achieving
OUR SERVICES Retirement Planning Investment Management Estate Planning Education Fund Planning Insurance Reviews And More! 143 Hartman Road, Suite 9, Greensburg, PA 15601 (724) 858-1122 ParkAveWealth.com info@parkavewealth.com Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth. 143 Hartman Road, Suite 9, Greensburg, PA 15601
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A Natural Way to Soothe Arthritis Pain — Without Pills or Side Effects
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s we get older, life’s simple joys—gardening, cooking, playing with grandchildren—can be overshadowed by arthritis, stiff joints, sore muscles, or lingering pain from old injuries. If you’re looking for a safe, natural way to find relief without relying on more pills, Lemongrove Oil’s Pain-Relieving Lotion and Topical Shea Butter may be exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Unlike ordinary creams, our lotion uses nano-powered CBD technology, which breaks CBD into microscopic droplets your body can actually absorb—up to 95% absorption compared to the usual 7–10%. This allows the relief to work faster and reach deeper into muscles and joints. Our Pain-Relieving Lotion contains 8.5% menthol and 3% camphor, giving you a gentle icy–warm sensation that helps ease arthritis pain, back stiffness, knee aches, and sore hands. For jaw pain, headaches or sinus pressure, many people choose our Shea Butter formula which delivers the same powerful CBD benefits but without any cooling or heating effect. Each ounce contains 250mg of THC-free CBD, so it will not cause a “high” or show up on drug tests. It’s safe to use multiple times a day—on shoulders, hands, knees, hips, or wherever pain flares up. If you’re tired of living with daily discomfort, this may be the natural relief your body has been asking for. n
Lapels A Fine Men’s Clothier in Greensburg
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veryone knows Lapels A Fine Men’s Clothier is synonymous with casual sportswear, on-trend fashions, and accessories, but did you know Lapels is also the place to shop for dress clothing? Located at 106 South Pennsylvania Ave. in Downtown Greensburg, Lapels offers tailored suits and sportscoats from designers like Jack Victor and Hart Schaffner & Marx. Lapels offers custom-made services for clients who want a suit specifically designed for them. Lapels has exquisite dress shirts and neckties, along with other accessories to complete the look. Looking for something a bit more formal for a special event? Lapels offers rentals and sales of tuxedos and suits for prom and weddings. Couples love that they can also purchase groomsmen gifts at Lapels as well. Choose from men’s jewelry, barware accessories, and more. Owner Kevin Miscik and his friendly staff invite you to stop in and see all that Lapels can offer you. Lapels is open daily, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and late on Thursdays until 7 p.m. Although it is closed on Sundays, Lapels is open by appointment only. To make a personal appointment with a member of our staff, call the Lapels Shopping Line at 724-853-7145. 106 South Pennsylvania Ave. | Downtown Greensburg | 724-853-7145 | www.LapelsMensWear.com
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Stay Informed, Empowered, and Connected with GOAL Magazine
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OAL Magazine is a semi-annual community publication designed to provide readers with authentic, practical, and trustworthy information to help you make confident decisions about the things that matter most. Each issue features the insight and expertise of respected local professionals, nonprofits, and community leaders—people who live and work right here in our region and care deeply about helping it thrive. From financial and estate planning to Medicare guidance, home value insights, and health and wellness advice, GOAL Magazine offers expert perspectives tailored to your stage of life. Learn from trusted professionals such as real estate expert Scott Ludwick, estate planning attorney Jessica Rafferty, and Medicare specialist Allison Clayton. You’ll also find valuable financial guidance from SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management, tax strategies from Kisiel & Associates, and much more. Our mission is simple—to connect you with your community, deliver reliable information you can trust, and spotlight local professionals making a positive impact. Stay informed. Be empowered. Get connected. Two years, four issues, one subscription. Subscribe today at www.go2goalus.com. n
A Tradition of Caring Since 1992
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CF Management, Inc. headquartered in Lima, Ohio has proudly owned and operated Hempfield Manor in Westmoreland County for over four decades, proof of our lasting commitment to serving our community.
HCF is recognized as a leader in long-term care and is proud of its distinguished record of quality care. Whether our care is needed for a short period of time, or you have decided to call Hempfield Manor home, we are grateful you have chosen us. Regardless of what stage of life you are in, we understand this transition is a significant change that requires immense trust in us. To be part of your chosen family is a tremendous honor and reward. Thank you for letting us show you what it means to be part of the Hempfield Manor family! n
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Precision Care Pharmacy offers Personalized Care
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t Precision Care Pharmacy, our secret to success isn’t a mystery, it’s in the way we treat our customers like family. We deliver fast, customized care that corporate pharmacies simply can’t match. By taking the time to truly get to know you, we don’t just fill prescriptions, we foster relationships. Our customers are not numbers; they are friends, and their health and happiness are our top priorities. We pride ourselves on offering the lowest prices possible without compromising on care. Our team works closely with your doctors to explore cost-saving alternatives and coordinates with your insurance company to ensure you receive the maximum benefits. We also keep our over-the-counter items fairly priced, always considering your budget and health outcomes. Try our FREE vitamin program allowing health at the absolute lowest cost. We also offer FREE local delivery to Greensburg, Youngwood, Jeanette, Latrobe, Derry and surrounding communities. With the latest cut-off times in the area and being free of charge, we aim to help when you need it most, especially for those who cannot drive or have busy schedules. What truly sets us apart is our team. Many of our staff have over 20 years of service at our pharmacy. This means we know you not just as a customer, but as a friend. Our knowledgeable pharmacists and compassionate technicians take the time to listen, offer guidance, and ensure you have all the support you need. It’s because of you, our loyal customers, that we’ve been able to serve our community for over 30 years. Thank you for your continued trust and support—it makes our work truly meaningful. n
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Trusted Advice, Caring Service at D’Aurora Hearing & Audiology
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t D’Aurora Hearing & Audiology, our audiologists are dedicated to providing excellent customer service for your hearing loss treatment. We go above and beyond for the needs of our clients. We provide a comprehensive hearing evaluation to discover the level of your hearing loss, and establish the best treatment that fits your needs. Our team of audiologists have been serving Westmoreland County for more than 50 years of combined service. Our state-of-the-art offices are designed for your convenience and comfort, and our friendly, no-pressure approach ensures you have all the information you need to make confident decisions about your hearing health. With hearing devices for every lifestyle and budget, our team is Complimentary Hearing Screenings here to guide you every step of the way including ongoing support Hearing Aid Cleaning & Checks through our Lifetime follow-up Service and supplies for most major care program. makes & models of hearing aids Visit the location nearest to you Refer a Friend Program to make an appointment and to Experience more connection Many Locations in the Westmoreland area! learn more! n this holiday season • Greensburg • Monroeville • Ligonier • New Alexandria Part of the
Hearing Care Network www.beltonesound.com (724) 221-8819
The Perfect Last Minute Gift Idea! From Greensburg Country Club
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reensburg Country Club offers a variety of membership tiers to fit every lifestyle. Dining Memberships are ideal for those who love great food, warm hospitality, and exclusive club events. Our Golf Memberships provide full access to the course, leagues, and special tournaments—perfect for both seasoned players and those looking to learn. Pool Memberships are a summertime favorite, offering a relaxing retreat for families and sun-seekers. And for the trendsetters, our Pickleball Membership brings fast-growing fun with dedicated courts and social play. Plus, now is the perfect time to join—our spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration is open to the public, featuring live entertainment, A GREENSBURG COUNTRY CLUB festive dining, and a champagne MEMBERSHIP MAKES A GREAT GIFT! toast to ring in 2026 in style. Looking for a last-minute gift? Give the gift of connecGive the gift of GCC! tion, community, and unforgetWith membership options starting at just table experiences with a GCC $375 for the year! now with chef with membership options from dining, mark henry! Membership! n golf, pool, and pickleball, there’s a perfect tier for everyone on your list! Contact Tara Shannon for more information| 724-837-1810 tshannon@greensburgcc.com
Tara Shannon, general manager
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Life Options Pittsburgh: Your Trusted Resource for Senior Care When you or a loved one suddenly need care, the experience can be overwhelming and confusing at best—or a crisis at worst. Where can you turn? What resources are available to help? Look to Life Options Pittsburgh (LOP) as your reliable, single-source provider of information and assistance when you need it most.
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55+ FEATURE
Brightening Your Mood Through a Pittsburgh Winter Kathy Thompson, Senior Care Authority
Winter in Pittsburgh arrives with charm—snowy mornings, cozy evenings, and the sparkle of the holidays. Yet for many adults 55 and older, the darker days can bring challenges such as low energy, disrupted sleep, and a dip in mood. Seasonal changes are real, but the good news is that small, intentional habits can make a big difference in keeping spirits lifted all winter long.
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ne of the most effective ways to boost your mood during shorter days is through light exposure. Even 10–15 minutes of morning sunlight can help rebalance the body’s internal clock. On cloudy days, something Pittsburgh knows well, consider using a
light therapy lamp to mimic natural daylight and support alertness. Maintaining a daily routine is another powerful tool. Consistent wake times, meals, social interactions, and bedtime rituals help keep both mind and body steady. Knowing what your day will look
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Winter 2025/26 | Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus
like can reduce stress and create a comforting sense of structure. Winter also tends to shrink our social circles, which can lead to isolation. Staying connected—whether through a weekly phone call, attending local senior center activities, or joining a hobby
group—can dramatically improve emotional well-being. Even brief social interactions release feel-good chemicals that lift our mood. Movement is just as important. Indoor exercises, such as stretching, chair yoga, walking laps at a mall, or online fitness classes designed for older adults, help increase energy, support joint health, and reduce anxiety. Pair this with brain boosters—puzzles, reading, trivia, or learning something new—to keep the mind active and engaged. And finally, sprinkle in simple joys: warm tea, uplifting music, a favorite movie, or watching birds at the feeder. Small pleasures, enjoyed regularly, nourish the spirit. While winter may bring longer nights, cultivating connection, routine, movement, and moments of light can help make this season not only manageable, but meaningful. n
Concordia Lutheran Ministries Whatever senior care/living services you need in Westmoreland County, Concordia has you covered. Compare Concordia at Bethlen, Concordia at Weatherwood and Concordia Home Health and Hospice of Bethlen to see what makes us the best of the best. Learn more about how we can help at www.ConcordiaLM.org. Senior care locations and services throughout western PA www.ConcordiaLM.org • 1-888-352-1571
invites you to join in the Holiday Spirit by stopping at their facility from Dec 2nd thru Dec 23rd and vote for your favorite tree during their “Parade of Trees” event!
1118 Woodward Drive Greensburg, PA 15601 724-836-4424
Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus
| Winter 2025/26
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Westmoreland Co. Events
Concerts / Performances
The Nutcracker presented by Texture Contemporary Ballet & Texture Ballet School, 7:30 pm, Dec. 12 and 11 am & 3 pm, Dec. 13, The Palace Theater, 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. For tickets, visit www.textureballet.org/the-nutcracker. Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra presents Rhapsody in Blue, 7:30 pm, Feb. 14, The Palace Theater; Sunday Sessions: Windfluence, 2 pm, Feb. 22, Zion’s Lutheran Church, 140 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Greensburg. For info, visit www.eventbrite.com.
Holiday
Corks & Cookies, noon-4 pm, Dec. 6 & 7; Dec. 13 & 14; Dec. 20 & 21, presented by Greendance - The Winery at Sand Hill. For info, visit www.golaurelhighlands.com/event/corks-cookiesweekend. Holiday Mart, 5-8 pm, Dec. 4; noon-8 pm, Dec. 5; 10 am-5 pm, Dec. 6, at the Westmoreland Museum, 221 N Main St., Greensburg. Holiday shopping. For info, visit thewestmoreland. org/winter/. Holly Jolly Christmas in Latrobe, Dec. 4-6; Light Up Night, downtown Latrobe; 5-8 pm, Dec. 4; 7:30 pm, Dec. 5, Songs of the Season, St. Vincent College; 9:30 am, Dec. 6, Santa’s March, along Ligonier St. from Chestnut St. to Main St. For a list of events, visit hollyjollylatrobe.com/events/saturday-festival/.
Home for the Holidays, 7:30 pm, Dec. 20, The Palace Theatre, 21 West Otterman St. Greensburg. Presented by the Westmoreland County Symphony. For info, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/home-for-the-holidays-tickets. Winter Lights Display, running nightly thru Jan. 14, dusk to 10 pm, at the Westmoreland Museum, 221 N Main St., Greensburg. For details, visit thewestmoreland.org/winter/.
Support Groups
Alzheimer’s Association Helpline for individuals struggling with the disease, their families and caregivers. Visit alz.org/pa, or call (412) 261-5040 or (800) 272-3900. Caregiver support group meeting, 2nd Wed. of each month, 1:00-3:00 pm, (Jan. 7 & Feb. 11) at the McKenna Center for active adults, 971 Old Salem Rd. Greensburg. All caregivers are welcome to attend. For info, call (724) 830-4484 or toll-free at 1-800-442-8000. Parkinson Caregivers Support Group, 1:30-3 pm, 1st Monday of the month, (Jan. 5 & Feb. 2), Redstone Highlands, 12921 Redstone Dr., North Huntington. Contact Lisa at (724) 832-8401, ext. 3353. For info, visit redstone.org/communities/parkinsons-programs. Parkinson Foundation of Western Pennsylvania offers various activities for those impacted by Parkinson’s disease. For further info, visit https://pfwpa.org/.
Where to find your copy of Monroeville Giant Eagle 4010 Monroeville Blvd., Monroeville 15146 Monroeville Senior Center 6000 Gateway Campus Blvd., Monroeville 15146 Penn Hills Giant Eagle 230 Rodi Road, Penn Hills 15235 Youngwood Youngwood Corner Market 1 North Fourth Street, Youngwood, 15697 Hayden’s Pharmacy 505 N. Fourth Street, Youngwood, 15697 Mt. Pleasant Hayden’s Pharmacy same bldg. as Main Street Deli 535 W Main Street, Mt Pleasant 15666 Donegal Hayden’s Pharmacy 3782 State Route 31, Donegal 15628
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Latrobe CVS Pharmacy 1706 Theatre Street, Latrobe 15650 Latrobe Library 1112 Ligonier St, Latrobe 15650
Greensburg Precision Care Pharmacy 434 E. Pgh. Street, Greensburg 15601 McKenna Senior Center 971 Old Salem Road, Greensburg 15601 Greensburg Library 237 S Pennsylvania Ave., Greensburg 15601 Area Agency on Aging 200 S. Main Street, Greensburg 15601
Ligonier Giant Eagle 117 Walnut Street Ligonier 15658 Ligonier Library 120 W Main St, Ligonier 15658
Murrysville Dick’s Diner 4200 William Penn Highway, Murrysville 15668 Market District Giant Eagle 4810 Old William Penn Highway, Export 15632
Harrison City/Jeannette Giant Eagle
Penn Area Library 2001 Municipal Ct, Harrison City 15636
Delmont Delmont Library 75 School St, Delmont 15626 Lamplighter Restaurant 6566 Route 22 Delmont, PA 15626
West Newton/Herminie West Newton Senior Center 103 E Main St, West Newton 15089 (150) Herminie Senior Center 103 Sewickley Ave, Herminie 15637
North Huntingdon Giant Eagle 8901 US 30, North Huntingdon 15642 Shop n Save 12120 US30 North Huntingdon 15642
Penny Lane 2000 Penny Ln Dr, Jeannette 15644
Winter 2025/26 | Westmoreland Fifty-Five Plus