PACE and InnovAge Pennsylvania’s innovative LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) programs are dedicated to supporting and caring for our aging population. These programs focus on preserving the comfort and familiarity of home while fostering a sense of community and dignity. With this mission at their core, PACE and InnovAge offer a compassionate alternative to nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
“PACE is the solution to much of what challenges the healthcare system today, such as poorly coordinated care for people who can’t afford to pay for medications, necessary medical care, or even secure transportation to and from medical appointments,” says Dr. Ann Wells, InnovAge’s Chief Quality and Population Health Officer. “We do all of that and much more.”
Pointing to PACE’s baseline 11-member interdisciplinary care team — doctor, nurse, driver, social worker, physical therapist, occupational therapist, dietician, and additional center and home care support experts — Wells believes that such highly coordinated care is necessary in maintaining around-the-clock senior health.
“As a provider, our care teams work closely together to deliver care in our center and within the community,” states Wells.
One of the most illustrious parts of that PACE/InnovAge community is America’s veteran population, brave men and women who have served our country.
But how are elder veterans tended to — mentally, physically, and emotionally — especially those who have experienced combat? Wells notes that the PACE program is comprehensive, customized and closely-knit in its address of the mental, physical, social, and emotional needs of all of its participants, veterans included.
“We cover all medically necessary care and provide meaningful social services to support participants in our community,” says Wells. “For nearly all enrolled seniors, this comes at no cost to them. The wide-ranging services provided by PACE will help veterans live independently in their communities.”
Focusing on veterans’ care is especially timely, as this November brought the U.S. House of Representatives’ long-awaited approval of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. This landmark legislation significantly expands access to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) for veterans nationwide, ensuring they receive comprehensive and inclusive support.
“We are pleased Congress has recognized that older veterans with VA health benefits should have the same access to home and community-based services, such as PACE, as other seniors,” says Shawn Bloom, president and CEO of NPA in a statement.
As a doctor and veteran who served in the United States Air Force, Wells is also delighted, and ready to move forward.
“While serving in the United States Air Force, I had the privilege of taking care of veterans in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam,” she says. “I’ve witnessed first and second hand the sacrifices our veterans have made to serve and protect our country. We, as a country, must ensure that we are addressing and caring for the mental, physical, social, and emotional needs of our veterans.”
Wells is in great company, as over 200 members of InnovAge staff are also veterans.
Despite the Dole Act’s potential uphill battle in Senate, Wells finds it fantastic that the PACE program could be available to more veterans to keep them living safely in their communities.
“We serve hundreds of veterans at our centers, but with increased access, we know we could serve many more who are in need of our care and support.”
November is a particularly poignant time for the 400+ veterans who are enrolled at InnovAge centers. In Philadelphia, and elsewhere, InnovAge locations have hosted celebrations, ceremonies, and other activities to honor veterans. Many InnovAge centers will highlight their longstanding “Honor Walls” with pictures, ranks, stories and memorabilia from veterans enrolled at those centers.
While InnovAge veteran patients are pleased to be part of these worthy programs, one veteran, Dr. Ann Wells is proud.
“Our mission at InnovAge is to help seniors, including our veterans, live independently in the community and to advocate for and to educate and spread awareness about the PACE model of care.”
Sponsored content produced in partnership with InnovAge.
