When an older adult’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) becomes challenging, there is an increased risk of health complications, accidents, and self-neglect. Senior care options like assisted living or family caregiving may not be enough to prevent a dangerous situation from occurring when left alone for a sustained period. In such cases, they may qualify for a “Nursing Home Level of Care” (NHLOC).
Nursing homes, also known as long-term care facilities, provide more permanent support such as around-the-clock medical care and personal assistance for older adults who can no longer safely live independently. These residential facilities have staff available 24/7 to provide meals, help with ADLs, medication management, healthcare services, and socialization activities. While nursing homes allow seniors to receive comprehensive care, they require leaving one’s home and community to live in the facility full-time and can be costly.
More than 1.2 million people live in nursing homes. Nursing homes can be an excellent solution for those who need a higher level of care. However, many people find their own homes to be a more comfortable and affordable living arrangement than moving to a long-term care facility. Fortunately, if around-the-clock care is not yet needed, permanent placement in long-term care settings can be delayed or avoided with the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).
PACE is a holistic healthcare program that provides customized care and social engagement for older adults who qualify for nursing level of home care but are able to live independently in their community. Under the widely acclaimed PACE model of care, an interdisciplinary team meets daily to manage and coordinate all of participants’ care needs so they can continue to thrive in their communities.
The PACE Approach to Senior Health & Wellness
PACE participants continue living in their home and take free transportation to their local PACE center for medical services, supportive care, and meals. If deemed medically necessary by their interdisciplinary care team, participants may also receive certain types of home care services (such as light housekeeping). All of this helps them enjoy the benefits of aging in place.
Certain criteria must be met in order to be eligible to enroll in PACE including:
- Live in a designated PACE service area
- Be at least 55 years of age
- Certified as needing nursing home-level care
- Be able to live safely in the community with PACE services
Qualified participants may receive care through PACE at no cost if they have Medicaid only or are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. Seniors who have Medicare-only, private coverage, or no coverage pay a monthly premium – which is often significantly less than the monthly cost of a live-in facility.
PACE is excellent for older adults who value staying at home in familiar surroundings and maintaining independence despite needing elder care. However, the program is not suitable for those who cannot live independently. For seniors with 24/7 care needs, nursing homes offer a secure environment with around-the-clock medical attention and ADL assistance.
At Miami Jewish Health, we are experts at connecting families with care options for seniors that meet their unique needs – including long-term care services and Florida PACE Centers. If you have any questions about these programs, contact us to learn more.
