PINELLAS PARK, FL (WFLA) — Losing independence is one of the most difficult hurdles in aging. Many elderly people don’t want to go into a nursing home, but now there is a new trend called “aging in place.”
The idea is to have seniors stay engaged during the day, and still live at home.
“Isolation is one of the highest risks for health problems. Isolation and loneliness for our seniors,” said Stephanie Sessions, the Executive Director of Suncoast PACE in Pinellas Park.
Suncoast PACE is the only facility of its kind in the Tampa Bay area, allowing seniors who need care during the day, the luxury of living at home.
“It really has helped my mother with her dementia situation. Before she would sit at home and stare at the television, like she had no interest in anything,” said Sharon Bailey, whose mom and sister are both members of Suncoast PACE.
From a day filled with activities to health care, including a clinic with nurses and doctors on staff, PACE is all encompassing and covered by Medicare and Medicaid. You can pay for pace out of pocket if you’re not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare. Once you are a member of PACE, you don’t have co-pays for medications or doctors visits, which saves a lot of money in the long run.
For more information, visit: www.suncoastpace.org
