What Sets PACE Apart

April 5, 2022

One of the most common questions we get is what PACE is. After all, it’s not unheard of for people with working knowledge of senior care to be unfamiliar with PACE. In fact, the New York Times recently called it “the underdog of senior care.”

So, what is PACE and why would someone choose it over another senior care option? These are both great questions. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place.

Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Basics

PACE, or the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, is a Medicare and Medicaid program that offers care for seniors who need a nursing home level of care and are able to live safely in their community with support. To be eligible, an applicant must be over the age of 55 and live in a PACE service area.

PACE programs provide a wide range of services for participants, including physical care, dentistry, in-home care, prescription drugs, and a lot more. The program is designed so there’s one centralized group of medical professionals who tend to the same patient. That way, they can discuss the participant’s care as a whole, and what is truly important to them, instead of just tending to one section of their wellbeing.

Saving Money for the Participant and Taxpayers

To put it simply, PACE is a practical alternative to nursing homes. It’s a way to empower seniors to age in their own homes, all at a lower cost than many traditional nursing homes. In fact, for those who are eligible for Medicare and Medicaid or even just Medicaid, PACE is completely free.

If that wasn’t good enough, the PACE program also saves taxpayer money. Since PACE participants live in their homes and receive all-around care, the program costs an average of 15% less than what Medicaid would typically pay for low-income seniors in a nursing home. That means it’s a win for the participants and for taxpayers, too!

LifeCircles PACE

Although PACE is a comprehensive and beneficial program, several states don’t offer it to their local seniors, and even states that do offer it may not offer it statewide. Luckily, LifeCircles works with seniors in Muskegon County and some areas of both Allegan and Ottawa Counties to provide elderly care to those who qualify.

Our team works hard to ensure seniors feel empowered to age in their own homes, supported by the care they need. We’re a passionate group of professionals who puts the wellbeing of our participants first. After all, aging is a privilege, so we want to ensure our participants enjoy their later years with the independence and support that is important to them.

Do you have questions about PACE or LifeCircles? Get in touch with our capable team to find out how we can help you or a loved one age in place.