EP 177 - Understanding the PACE Program: How On Lok Is Transforming Senior Care in the Bay Area

Imagine this…Your mom is struggling to manage her medications.Your dad can’t safely drive anymore.And you’re juggling work, kids, and nonstop doctor appointments — feeling like every week brings a new crisis.What if there were one program that coordinated everything — medical care, adult day services, transportation, prescriptions, home support, and social engagement — all under one roof?That’s exactly what PACE was designed to do.🎧 In this episode of the Simplify Senior Transitions Podcast, Dale Corpus sits down with Nicole Torres, RN, Chief Operating Officer of On Lok — the organization that created the PACE model more than 50 years ago right here in the San Francisco Bay Area.Nicole is a 20+ year veteran of On Lok and brings a rare perspective, having started her career as a home care nurse before moving into senior leadership. Today, she oversees day-to-day operations across all On Lok programs and plays a key role in shaping the future of community-based senior care.In This Episode, We Cover:What the PACE Program actually is — and who qualifiesHow On Lok supports seniors aging safely at homeThe difference between PACE and Medi-Cal’s CBAS programHow care coordination works across doctors, transportation, caregivers, and familiesWhy integrated care reduces hospitalizations and nursing home placementThe emotional relief families feel once their loved one joins PACEHow families — and senior care professionals — can explore or refer to On LokNicole also shares real-world insight into how PACE supports sandwich-generation families, strengthens independence, and restores dignity for older adults who want to remain connected to their communities.If you’re caring for an aging parent — or helping families navigate senior care in the Bay Area — this is an episode you’ll want to save and share.Guest BioNicole Torres, RNChief Operating Officer, On LokAs On Lok’s Chief Operating Officer, Nicole Torres executes the goals and priorities of On Lok’s organizational strategy and oversees day-to-day operations across all On Lok programs and enterprise functions.About On LokOn Lok is a nonprofit organization and the original creator of the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Founded in San Francisco, On Lok has been a national leader in integrated senior care for over five decades, helping older adults remain independent, healthy, and connected to their communities.Contact & Social Links🌐 Website: www.onlok.org📞 Phone: 1-855-973-1110🔗 Nicole Torres on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolecabuloytorres/📱 On Lok Social Media:Instagram: @onlokincFacebook: @OnLokPACELinkedIn: @On LokYouTube: @On Lok📄Show notes: https://simplifyseniortransitions.com/feeling-the-sandwich-generation-squeezeIf you’re navigating a senior transition right now and trying to figure out the next step for a parent, here are some resources designed to help.⸻Resources for FamiliesIf you’re navigating senior living decisions, downsizing, or trying to determine the next step for an aging parent, visit:→ http://www.simplifyseniortransitions.com/familiesThis page provides guidance and resources specifically designed for families navigating senior transitions.⸻Resources for Senior Care ProfessionalsAnd if you’re a senior care professional who wants stronger positioning, clearer referral ecosystems, and more scalable systems for serving families in today’s evolving senior care landscape, visit:→ http://www.simplifyseniortransitions.com/professionals Support the show