September will be the first National PACE Month, according to the National PACE Association, which hopes it will become an annual observance.
In Burlington, Piedmont Health SeniorCare will recognize N.C. PACE Awareness Month, proclaimed by Gov. Roy Cooper, as well as celebrate its serving 500 seniors since 2008.
“Piedmont Health Services Inc. became committed to developing a PACE program once we learned that it created the best opportunity for our staff to deliver the highest quality of life to the seniors we serve,” CEO Brian Toomey said.
The kick-off is at noon Friday at 1214 Vaughn Road. On hand will be N.C. Rep. Steve Ross, R-Burlington, and County Commissioner Bob Byrd.
Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly coordinates and provides preventive, primary, acute and long-term care services so older adults can continue living at home in their communities. Doctors, nurses, therapists, social workers, dietitians, drivers and others provide direct care and services for program participants.
The theme of the observance is Driving Independence, focusing on PACE drivers’ role in promoting independence for seniors.
PACE, sponsored by Piedmont Health Services, serves seniors in Alamance, Caswell, Chatham, Lee and Orange counties.
Nationally, 239 PACE centers serve more than 40,000 PACE enrollees in 31 states.
“Every senior enrolled in PACE meets the requirements for nursing home care, yet 95 percent of PACE enrollees live in the community,” said Shawn Bloom, president and CEO of the National PACE Association.
By Times-News (Source)
Posted Aug 30, 2017 at 4:56 PM