Pennsylvania social connection research

Research, reports, and statewide data on social connection, community participation, health, aging, social infrastructure, and community conditions across Pennsylvania.

2022 Behavioral Health Risks of Pennsylvania Adults

Pennsylvania Department of Health

Statewide BRFSS data that includes direct measures of social isolation and access to social and emotional support among Pennsylvania adults. This is one of the most useful state-level sources for understanding how social disconnection shows up across age and demographic groups.


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The State of Our Health: A Statewide Health Assessment of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Department of Health

A broad statewide assessment of health, disparities, and social determinants that shape wellbeing across Pennsylvania. Useful for understanding the larger social and structural conditions surrounding community connection.

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Pennsylvania’s Public Libraries: An Assessment of Needs and Expectations

State Library of Pennsylvania

A statewide assessment of how residents use and perceive public libraries, including their role as trusted community anchors and places where people learn, gather, access services, and connect.

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Aging Our Way, PA

Pennsylvania Department of Aging

Pennsylvania’s 10-year multisector plan for aging. It includes social participation, transportation, community support, intergenerational opportunities, and the conditions that allow older adults to remain active and connected in their communities.

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Reframing and Strengthening Senior Community Centers in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Department of Aging and National Center to Reframe Aging

Statewide research and practical guidance examining participation in Pennsylvania’s 400+ Senior Community Centers and how these spaces can function as community hubs for connection, activity, resources, and engagement.

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Penn State Intergenerational Program & One Community–Many Generations

Penn State Extension

Penn State’s intergenerational work brings together research, practical resources, community engagement, and planning tools designed to strengthen relationships across generations. Its One Community–Many Generations initiative gives communities a structured way to gather resident perspectives and turn intergenerational dialogue into local action.

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Pennsylvania Intergenerational Network

Penn State

A statewide network launched to connect people and organizations working to expand intergenerational practice across Pennsylvania. It is useful less as a research report and more as a map of an emerging statewide field.

Explore the Pennsylvania Intergenerational Network