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 elderly population stay in their homes as they age, according to a press release.

The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, PACE, connects participants with services like medical and personal care, rehabilitation, social interaction, medications, transportation and more so that people can age at home safely. Jordan Valley Senior Care, headquartered 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 assessment and enrollment currently occurring.

"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 press 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 supports at-home support such as skilled care and equipment like ramps and grab bars. The program also addresses one of main barriers to care that seniors face: Transportation.

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

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

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

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

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