How St. Pauls’ PACE Supports Family Caregivers: A Lifeline for Loved Ones

Caring for an aging loved one is an act of love and devotion, but it can also be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging. Family caregivers often juggle their responsibilities with work, parenting, and other obligations, leaving little time for self-care or relaxation. That’s where   St. Paul’s PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) steps in to provide much-needed support. By offering comprehensive care and services, PACE not only enhances the lives of San Diego seniors but also serves as a lifeline for family caregivers.

Relieving Caregiver Stress

One of the most significant benefits of St. Paul’s PACE is its ability to reduce the stress and burden on family caregivers. With PACE, families no longer need to coordinate multiple providers, schedule appointments or navigate the complexities of medical care on their own. The program handles everything from doctor’s appointments and medications to transportation and therapies. This centralized approach allows caregivers to step back from managing day-to-day healthcare logistics and focus on spending quality time with their loved ones.

Comprehensive Care for Seniors in the PACE program

St. Paul’s PACE in San Diego provides a wide range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each participant. These services include:

• Medical Care: Coordinated health care tailored to your loved one with regular access to primary care physicians, specialists, and nursing staff.
• Rehabilitation: Build the strength to enjoy life by providing physical, occupational, and speech therapies to maintain or improve mobility and independence.
• Social Activities: Group outings, classes, and events to keep seniors engaged and connected.
• Nutrition: Nutritious meals and dietary counseling to support overall health.
• Transportation: Reliable transportation to medical appointments and the PACE centers across San Diego County.

This approach ensures that PACE participants receive top-quality care while giving caregivers peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in good hands.

Emotional Support for Caregivers

Caring for a loved one can be an isolating experience, but St. Paul’s PACE helps caregivers feel supported and understood. The PACE program offers caregiver support groups where individuals can share their experiences, exchange advice, and build a sense of community. Additionally, PACE staff are always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer reassurance when challenges arise.

Financial Relief

Navigating the costs of senior care can be overwhelming. St. Paul’s PACE is designed to be an affordable option for families, covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare, or a combination of both.

For those with Medi-Cal and no share-of-cost, St. Paul’s PACE services are free. There are no co-pays or hidden fees; even medication is free (pending aid code approval). Medi-Cal beneficiaries who have share-of-cost remain responsible for their individual share-of-cost. For more information call 1(833) PACENOW.

Aging in Place for Seniors

For many San Diego seniors and their families, the ability to remain at home is a top priority. St. Paul’s PACE makes this possible by providing in-home support, personal care, and medical services that allow participants to age in place safely. This benefit not only aligns with the preferences of most seniors but also alleviates the emotional toll on caregivers who may feel guilty about considering institutional care options.

A Partner in Care

At its core, St. Paul’s PACE is a partnership between families and healthcare professionals. By sharing the caregiving responsibilities, PACE allows family members to reclaim their own time and energy while ensuring their loved ones receive the highest standard of care. Whether it’s helping a parent manage a chronic condition, arranging transportation to appointments, or simply offering a listening ear, PACE is there every step of the way.

Family caregivers play an important role in supporting their aging loved ones, but they don’t have to do it alone. St. Paul’s PACE provides a comprehensive solution that benefits both seniors and their families, offering peace of mind, practical assistance, and emotional support. If you’re a caregiver looking for a lifeline, consider exploring how St. Paul’s PACE can make a difference in your life and the life of your loved one. With locations across San Diego County, we can make it happen.

St. Paul’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a managed healthcare plan exclusively for low-income seniors ages 55+ who have chronic conditions that make it difficult to live independently at home. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about our program, submit a free evaluation here or call 1-833-PACENOW to speak with an Enrollment Coordinator today.