Caring for an aging loved one can present numerous challenges. Families often struggle with questions like medication management, transportation to appointments, coordinating medical care, and combating loneliness. For those providing care, concerns about leaving loved ones unattended and ensuring their safety are paramount. Fortunately, solutions exist that allow seniors to receive the necessary support while remaining in the comfort of their own homes. One such solution is the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, known as PACE. Specifically, what is CarePartners PACE program and how can it help?
CarePartners PACE is a unique program designed to enable seniors aged 55 and older to live independently at home, even when they require a nursing home level of care. This comprehensive program, funded by Medicare and Medicaid, coordinates and provides a wide array of medical and support services tailored to each participant’s individual needs. It’s important to note that with CarePartners PACE, all non-emergency services must be authorized by the program to ensure coverage. The program offers a broad spectrum of services, including:
- Dentistry
- Emergency services, ensuring immediate care when needed.
- Home care services, bringing assistance directly to the participant’s residence.
- Hospital care, covering inpatient needs when hospitalization is necessary.
- Laboratory and X-ray services for diagnostic testing.
- Meals, providing nutritional support and addressing dietary needs.
- Medical specialty services, offering access to specialized medical expertise.
- Medical transportation, ensuring participants can reach medical appointments.
- Nursing home services, available if short-term or long-term nursing home care becomes necessary.
- Nutritional counseling, offering guidance on healthy eating habits.
- Occupational therapy, helping participants maintain daily living skills.
- Physical therapy, focusing on improving mobility and physical function.
- Prescription drugs, managing medication needs effectively.
- Primary care, including doctor and nursing services for routine medical needs.
- Recreational therapy, promoting engagement and social well-being.
- Social services, connecting participants with community resources and support.
- Social work counseling, providing emotional and mental health support.
CarePartners PACE employs an interdisciplinary team of professionals who collaborate to create and manage each participant’s care plan. This team works closely with participants and their families to ensure that care is personalized and aligned with individual goals. The primary aim of CarePartners PACE is to empower seniors to remain active members of their communities while enjoying the highest possible quality of life.
Determining Your Eligibility for CarePartners PACE
To be eligible for CarePartners PACE, individuals must meet specific criteria:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be 55 years of age or older.
- Residency: Participants must reside within the CarePartners PACE service areas, which include Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, and Transylvania counties, excluding zip codes 28774 and 28749.
- Level of Care Need: Individuals must meet the North Carolina Nursing Home Level of Care Criteria, indicating a need for significant care services.
- Community Safety: At the time of enrollment, applicants must be able to live safely in a community setting with the support of PACE services.
If you are concerned about an older adult in your community who is facing health challenges that make it difficult for them to live safely and independently at home, CarePartners PACE may be able to offer assistance. For further information about the program and how it can help, please call (828) 213-8442. PACE is a program fully funded by Medicare and Medicaid, making comprehensive care accessible to those who qualify.
