The Fresno PACE program is a health care program for persons 55 and older who need nursing home care but instead continue to live in the community. Their team includes physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, therapists, van drivers and care aides who work together to provide all needed health and long term care services. PACE is paid for by combining payments from Medicare and Medicaid or private pay sources. Studies have shown that older adults who join PACE have better health and quality of life, live longer, and have more choices in how to spend their time. Working with a health care team also increases the older adult’s ability to deal with their health and other problems.
To qualify, a person must be 55 years or older, live in the Fresno area, have a health need as determined by the Department of Health Care Services, and be able to live safely at home. To learn more about the Fresno PACE program call 559 – 400- 6420 or visit their website.
Wendi Lane visits PACE.