The Jordan Valley program will help Springfield residents stay in their homes as they age

Jordan Valley Community Health Center will soon launch a program that aims to help Springfield’s senior population stay in their homes as they age, according to a news release.

The All-Inclusive Senior Care Program, PACE, connects participants with services such as medical and personal care, rehabilitation, social interaction, medications, transportation and more so people can age safely at home. Jordan Valley Senior Care, located at 1720 W. Grand St., is the first PACE model to launch in southwest Missouri, according to the news release.

Jordan Valley anticipates patient care should begin in July, with evaluation and enrollment currently underway.

“PACE is perfectly aligned with Jordan Valley’s mission to improve access to quality health care for the underserved,” said Dr. Matt Stinson, JVCHC CEO and President, in the news release. “The PACE model also has a strong track record of high-quality outcomes for participants, including lower hospitalization rates and reduced emergency room visits.”

An interdisciplinary team of professionals, who are also experts in working with older people, work with participants and families to develop an effective care plan. PACE also provides in-home assistance such as skilled nursing and equipment such as ramps and grab bars. The program also addresses one of the main barriers to care that older people face: transportation.

To enroll in PACE, people must be at least 55 years old, live in the service area, be certified by the state as meeting the need for nursing home care, and be able to live safely in the community with PACE’s help . services at the time of registration. They do not have to be enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid, and no financial criteria are considered in determining eligibility, according to the National PACE Association.

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The NPA says the average participant is 76 years old and has multiple and complex medical conditions; cognitive and/or functional disorders; and significant health and long-term care needs. About 90% are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.

“PACE will be a game-changer for some of our community’s most vulnerable seniors,” Deanna Beckenholdt, executive director of Jordan Valley Senior Care, said in a news release. “Our day center is an incredible resource, not only for accessing out-of-home care and therapies, but also for keeping participants connected to their community and peers.”

For more information, call Jordan Valley Senior Care at 417-851-1550 or visit www.jordanvalley.org/senior.

This article originally appeared on the Springfield News-Leader: New program at Jordan Valley helps Springfield residents as they age