Blue Ridge Independence at Home PACE program

In this episode, host Janet Michael sits down with SueAnn Myers, the Executive Director of Blue Ridge Independence at Home, to discuss the new PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) program. Throughout the conversation, SueAnn explains the extensive services provided through PACE, which aims to help seniors aged 55 and older who are eligible for nursing home care but can live safely at home. SueAnn details how the program offers comprehensive, inclusive care for seniors, including transportation, medical care, personal care, home care services, dental, vision, and much more. The PACE program is designed to keep seniors in their homes safely, providing them with all necessary supports to ensure they do not end up in a nursing home unless absolutely necessary. She highlights how the program benefits the community by providing peace of mind to families and reducing absenteeism due to caretaking responsibilities. She also emphasizes the importance of social engagement for seniors, which the PACE program fosters through its day center and activities. SueAnn further explains that Blue Ridge Independence at Home is a sister organization to Blue Ridge Hospice, ensuring that the high quality, compassionate care the community trusts is extended through the PACE program. The discussion underscores the innovative and comprehensive nature of this program, which models the effective, holistic approach seen in hospice care. The episode concludes with details about an upcoming open house for the PACE program on September 28th, encouraging the community to visit and learn more about this groundbreaking service.