September is National PACE Month, and Bluegrass PACE Care, an extension of Bluegrass Care Navigators, joins programs nationwide in celebrating National PACE Month. The program has served over 200 local seniors in Fayette, Franklin, Anderson, Woodford, and Jessamine counties since opening in 2022.

At the PACE Center, participants receive coordinated care including primary medical services, physical and occupational therapy, dental and vision care, medications delivered in easy-to-use daily packets, social activities, nutritious meals, and reliable transportation. Home support services and wellness checks extend that care beyond the center’s walls, helping participants remain safe and independent in their own homes. As a result, 94 percent of PACE participants can continue living in their community rather than in an institutional setting.

“National PACE Month is an opportunity to show families how this unique model makes life easier and more meaningful for seniors,” said Melissa Perry, Site Director of Bluegrass PACE Care. “Our team coordinates every aspect of care, so participants and their loved ones don’t have to navigate the system alone.”

The theme of this year’s observance is #ThankYouPACE to honor the experiences of participants, caregivers and PACE staff and highlight the meaningful, personalized support that defines the PACE model of care.

Look at what the Bluegrass PACE Participants are saying about the program:

“PACE is a haven for those who want to remain safe at home and avoid moving into a nursing facility.” - Alice B., PACE Participant

“The staff is wonderful, and they make you feel important every time you come here. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” - Michael P., PACE Participant

“I love coming to PACE and participating in the activities and games, as well as spending time with family and friends. The community here makes is what it’s all about” - Renee B., PACE Participant

The importance of PACE continues to grow as the country approaches a major demographic milestone. By 2034, older adults will outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history. This shift presents challenges for older adults and their families, from access to affordable housing and caregiver support to workforce shortages, long-term care financing, and the need for technology that enables safety and independence. PACE provides unique solutions to address each of these challenges.

To learn more about the innovative PACE model of care at Bluegrass PACE Care, call 859.687.9410 or visit bgcarenav.org/PACE.

To find a PACE program near you, visit the website of the National PACE Association, which works to advance the efforts of PACE programs.

About Bluegrass PACE Care

Bluegrass PACE Care provides transportation to and from the PACE Center and to medical appointments arranged by the care team. At the Center, participants receive primary care, therapy, personal care, nutritious meals, and opportunities to socialize and participate in group activities. Services are fully covered for participants who have both Medicare and Medicaid, or Medicaid only. Individuals with Medicare or private insurance are encouraged to contact Bluegrass PACE Care to discuss coverage options and associated fees. Bluegrass PACE Care is now enrolling new participants in Frankfort and Lexington.

About Bluegrass Care Navigators 

Established in 1978, Bluegrass Care Navigators provides hospice care in 32 counties across northern, central and eastern Kentucky. As a mission-driven, nonprofit agency, Bluegrass Care Navigators supports those facing serious illness or chronic disease with both long and short-term hospice care, palliative care, transitional care, PACE (Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), and grief counseling services. For more information on services available by county, visit bgcarenav.org or call 855.492.0812.