#United States #Columbus #Senior Care #PACE Program #Ohio Department of Aging

Expanded All-Inclusive Care Services for Seniors in Ohio

The Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) has announced a significant expansion of its Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) to include Franklin and Summit counties. This pioneering initiative aims to provide an integrated care solution for adults aged 55 and older, allowing them to receive the necessary support while remaining in their homes and communities, rather than transitioning to institutional care facilities.

Director Ursel J. McElroy of ODA expressed, "We want families to focus on the moments that matter the most. PACE offers various options such as medical care, home health, counseling, and respite care for those caring for loved ones. The expansion into Franklin and Summit counties is just one of the ways that we are striving to make Ohio the best place to age in the nation."

What is PACE?

PACE is designed specifically for seniors who require assistance typically found in nursing facilities but prefer to maintain their independence at home. This care model is not only comprehensive but also cost-effective, integrating medical, social, and personal care services under one coordinated framework. Many participants qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, which covers a variety of services including:

• - Primary and specialty medical care
• - Adult day health services
• - Personal care services
• - Inpatient hospital care
• - Prescription medications
• - Occupational and physical therapies
• - Nursing home care if needed

Currently, PACE services are also available in Cuyahoga and Lorain counties, with plans to extend these services to Ashtabula, Hamilton, Lucas, Mahoning, Montgomery, and Trumbull counties by early 2026. ODA projects that over 220,000 Ohio residents aged 55 and over will be eligible for PACE services, a transformative step towards enhancing the lives of Ohio’s senior population.

A Person-Centered Approach

The implementation of PACE is a testament to Ohio's commitment to personalized healthcare for its aging population. By focusing on individual needs and preferences, PACE empowers seniors to stay at home, where they feel comfortable and secure. Each participant's care is tailored to their specific requirements, with an interdisciplinary team of professionals providing support and guidance throughout their care journey.

McElroy reassured the public, "Older Ohioans have made it clear they prefer to spend their golden years at home. This program's expansion is designed to support more aging residents and ease family worries by ensuring their loved ones receive the care they deserve."

For families interested in enrolling a loved one in the PACE program, resources are readily available to help determine the best options based on individual circumstances. Payment methods are flexible, allowing participants to utilize Medicare, Medicaid, or out-of-pocket payments as necessary.

For further details, families can visit aging.ohio.gov/pace for comprehensive information on the PACE program and its benefits.

Conclusion

The expansion of the PACE program is undoubtedly a significant milestone for Ohio's aging population. By providing comprehensive and coordinated care options, the state not only enhances the quality of life for seniors but also underscores its commitment to supporting families in their caregiving roles. With services accessible and personalized to meet diverse needs, PACE stands out as a leading model in elder care, ensuring that Ohioans can age gracefully within the comfort of their communities.