Each May, Older Americans Month reminds us to recognize the strength, resilience, and contributions of older adults while also bringing attention to the challenges many seniors and caregivers quietly face every day.
At Gary and Mary West PACE, we meet families every day who are doing their best to navigate those challenges alone.
Sometimes it starts with a fall. A missed medication. A hospitalization that leaves an older adult weaker than before. Sometimes it is an adult daughter trying to balance work, caregiving, and worry about whether her father is safe at home alone during the day. Other times, it is a senior who has slowly become isolated after losing a spouse, no longer driving, or struggling to keep up with ongoing medical appointments and chronic health conditions.
For many families in North County San Diego, these moments can feel overwhelming and uncertain.
That is where the PACE model was designed to help.
The National PACE Association reports that more than 95% of PACE participants are able to continue living in the community rather than in nursing homes because of coordinated care and support services. (npaonline.org)
As a nonprofit Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly serving North County since 2019, West PACE provides comprehensive medical care, therapy, transportation, meals, social activities, and home-based support for eligible seniors who wish to remain living safely at home. Instead of navigating multiple disconnected systems, participants receive care through one coordinated interdisciplinary team focused on the whole person.
At West PACE, healthy aging is not just about medical care. It is about helping someone regain confidence after a hospitalization. It is about physical therapists helping participants rebuild strength and prevent falls. It is about transportation teams making sure seniors can get safely to appointments and activities. It is about recreation staff creating opportunities for friendship, laughter, creativity, and purpose.
“Our goal is never just to manage medical needs,” shared Aly Armstrong, Center Director at West PACE. “We want seniors to feel connected, valued, and supported. Some of the most meaningful moments happen when a participant begins smiling again, rebuilding confidence, or feeling part of a community.”
For caregivers, support matters too.“
Many family caregivers wait until they are completely exhausted before reaching out for help,” said Mary Jurgensen, Community Engagement Director at West PACE. “Older Americans Month is an important reminder that families do not have to navigate aging, caregiving, and healthcare challenges alone. Our team is here to help people find answers, resources, and support before they reach a crisis point.”
Today, PACE programs serve more than 90,000 seniors nationwide, helping older adults age safely in the communities they love. (npaonline.org)
This Older Americans Month, West PACE encourages seniors, caregivers, and families throughout North County to learn more about the resources available to support healthy aging, independence, and quality of life. If you or someone you love needs help navigating healthcare, caregiving, transportation, or support services for seniors, the West PACE team is here to help.
