How PACE Programs Help Northern Colorado Seniors Stay Independent Longer

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TRU PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly)

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Posted on

Jan 09, 2026

How PACE Programs Help Northern Colorado Seniors Stay Independent Longer

As people age, healthcare can become fragmented. Doctor visits, medications, transportation, personal care, and social needs are often handled by separate providers, leaving seniors and families to coordinate everything on their own. For many Northern Colorado seniors, this complexity becomes the biggest barrier to remaining independent.

That’s where TRU PACE offers a different model of care. Through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), TRU PACE brings medical care, long-term services, and social support together under one coordinated system—helping seniors remain safely in their homes while receiving comprehensive care.

This article explores how PACE works, who it serves, and why this integrated approach is transforming aging care for seniors in Lafayette and across Northern Colorado.


Why Traditional Healthcare Becomes Harder With Age

Older adults often manage multiple chronic conditions, medications, and appointments. Without coordination, care can quickly feel overwhelming.

Common challenges include:

  • Multiple specialists with limited communication

  • Transportation barriers to frequent appointments

  • Confusing insurance rules

  • Gaps between medical and non-medical care

  • Family caregivers juggling coordination

PACE was designed specifically to address these challenges.


What Is PACE and How Does It Work?

PACE is a federally recognized care model for adults age 55 and older who qualify for nursing-home-level care but want to remain living at home.

PACE programs provide:

  • Primary and specialty medical care

  • Prescription medications

  • Rehabilitation services

  • Transportation to appointments

  • In-home support and personal care

  • Social activities and meals

  • Care coordination and case management

All services are organized and managed by one interdisciplinary team.


Coordinated Care That Reduces Stress

Instead of navigating multiple systems, PACE participants work with a single care team that knows their full medical and personal history.

According to Staci Baker,

“PACE is about simplifying life for seniors and families. When care is coordinated, seniors feel safer and families feel supported.”

This coordinated approach reduces confusion and improves outcomes.


Why PACE Matters for Northern Colorado Seniors

Northern Colorado seniors often want to stay in their homes, close to community and family. PACE supports this goal by providing comprehensive services without requiring relocation.

Local benefits include:

  • Reduced hospitalizations

  • Fewer emergency room visits

  • Improved medication management

  • Better chronic condition control

  • Increased social engagement

By addressing health and daily needs together, PACE supports aging in place.


Supporting Both Medical and Daily Living Needs

PACE recognizes that health isn’t only about doctor visits—it’s about daily life.

Services often include:

  • Assistance with bathing and dressing

  • Physical and occupational therapy

  • Nutrition support and meals

  • Transportation services

  • Social and recreational activities

This whole-person approach supports both physical and emotional well-being.


Relief for Family Caregivers

Family caregivers often feel stretched thin coordinating care, transportation, and daily needs. PACE helps by taking on much of that responsibility.

Families benefit from:

  • One point of contact for care questions

  • Reduced coordination burden

  • Confidence that needs are addressed daily

  • Ongoing communication with care teams

Caregivers can focus on relationships rather than logistics.


Who Is Eligible for TRU PACE?

Eligibility generally includes:

  • Age 55 or older

  • Living in a PACE service area

  • Certified as needing nursing-home-level care

  • Able to live safely in the community with PACE support

Enrollment begins with an assessment to determine fit and eligibility.


Medicare, Medicaid, and PACE

PACE services are typically covered by Medicare and Medicaid for eligible participants. For those who qualify for both programs, most services come with little to no out-of-pocket cost.

PACE simplifies coverage by:

  • Bundling services under one program

  • Reducing surprise expenses

  • Eliminating multiple bills

Staff help families understand eligibility and enrollment.


Social Connection as Part of Care

Isolation is a significant health risk for seniors. PACE centers provide opportunities for connection through group activities, meals, and engagement.

Benefits include:

  • Reduced loneliness

  • Increased mental stimulation

  • Peer support

  • Stronger sense of community

Social health is treated as an essential part of care.


When Should Families Explore PACE?

PACE may be a good option when:

  • A senior needs increasing support to remain at home

  • Care coordination feels overwhelming

  • Transportation is becoming difficult

  • Family caregivers feel burned out

  • Nursing home placement is being considered

Exploring PACE early can prevent crisis-driven decisions.


Choosing an Integrated Care Path

Healthcare doesn’t have to be fragmented. With PACE, seniors receive comprehensive, coordinated support designed to preserve independence and dignity.

For Northern Colorado seniors seeking an alternative to nursing home care, TRU PACE offers a model that wraps services around the whole person—medical, practical, and social.

To learn more about eligibility and enrollment, visit TRU PACE’s Seniors Blue Book listing and explore whether this integrated care option is right for your family.


Frequently Asked Questions

Does PACE replace my current doctors?
PACE participants receive care through the PACE medical team to ensure coordination.

Can seniors live at home while enrolled in PACE?
Yes. Supporting aging in place is a core goal of PACE.

Is PACE only for low-income seniors?
No. Eligibility is based on care needs and program criteria.

Does PACE provide transportation?
Yes. Transportation is included for medical and program-related services.

Can families stay involved in care decisions?
Absolutely. Families are encouraged to participate in care planning.

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Medicare/Medicaid/Insurance in Lafayette, CO

When an older adult needs help at home and sees several clinicians, a coverage decision can affect everything from prescription refills to rides. If youre considering TRU PACE in Lafayette, start by asking how enrollment would change the care and coverage you already use. How Medicare and Medicaid Fit Into PACEPACE is the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. It coordinates healthcare and support for eligible adults who meet a state standard for nursing home-level care and can live safely in the community with PACE support at enrollment. Applicants must also be 55 or older and live in the programs service area.  TRU PACE and Your Current CoveragePhone: 303-665-0115Medicare says people with Medicaid pay no monthly PACE premium. Medicare beneficiaries without Medicaid pay premiums for the long-term care portion and Medicare Part D drugs. Medicare also says participants owe no deductible, copayment, or coinsurance for drugs, services, or care approved by their PACE team. Ask TRU PACE for an estimate based on your individual coverage before enrolling.  Doctors, Prescriptions, and Existing ServicesTRU PACE says it becomes the participants insurance provider at enrollment. Participants generally receive care through the programs provider network. Bring a list of your doctors, medications, and scheduled services. Ask which providers are in the network and how the team would coordinate any changes.  Why This Matters in LafayetteIf you regularly see a clinician near home or have a specialist visit scheduled outside Lafayette, give the enrollment team the names and dates. Ask which appointments can continue and what to do about any refill due around the enrollment date. How to Get Started1. Gather Your Coverage InformationHave your Medicare and Medicaid information, if applicable, along with details of any current plan. List the appointments and prescriptions you rely on most.2. Ask for an Enrollment and Cost ReviewCall TRU PACE and ask for your expected monthly cost, when any coverage change would take effect, and who would help coordinate the transition.  Related Seniors Blue Book CategoriesPACE Adult Day Services Care Management

Funeral Cremation & Mortuary Services in Lafayette, CO

After a death, families may have to make several decisions in a short time. Others prefer to talk through their wishes ahead of time. In either situation, it helps to separate the practical arrangements from the decisions about how to gather, remember, and say goodbye. What Funeral and Mortuary Services CoverA funeral home can help arrange transportation and care of the person who died, assist with paperwork, and coordinate burial or cremation. A family may also arrange a viewing, funeral, memorial, or private gathering. Ask which decisions need to be made immediately and which can wait. The Natural Funeral in LafayettePhone: 720-515-2344The Natural Funeral lists natural burial, flame cremation, water cremation, and terramation, also called natural organic reduction. Water cremation uses an alkaline water process, and terramation transforms remains into soil. If one of these options interests you, ask what the process involves, how long it typically takes, and what the family receives afterward.  Planning a Gathering and Reviewing CostsThe Lafayette funeral home is at 102 W Chester Street in Old Town. Ask what can take place at the Lafayette location and which parts would involve another venue or a cemetery. Request a General Price List and a written breakdown of your choices so you can see which fees cover the funeral homes work and which come from outside providers.  Why This Matters in LafayetteIf relatives are coming from out of town or some guests have limited mobility, ask about parking, step-free access, and how many people the gathering space can accommodate. If you plan to hold a service and burial at different locations, check how much time guests will need between them. How to Get Started1. Write Down the Persons WishesLook for written instructions and note any cultural or religious preferences. If youre planning ahead, tell a trusted person where you keep your instructions and whom to call.2. Ask for a Written PlanCall 720-515-2344 and ask what is needed on the first call. Once youve discussed options, request the expected timeline and itemized costs before approving arrangements. Related Seniors Blue Book CategoriesCounseling Hospice Advance Care Planning

Adult Day Services in Lafayette, CO

When an older adult spends most weekdays alone, families may need more than a place for them to go. They may also be juggling transportation, appointments, and help at home. TRU PACE in Lafayette offers a day center as part of a program that coordinates those needs for eligible older adults. What Are Adult Day Services?Adult day services offer daytime support outside the home. Depending on the program, participants may spend time with peers, eat a meal, take part in activities, or receive help with daily needs. Some centers accept people directly. The Lafayette TRU PACE center serves people enrolled in its broader Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. TRU PACE in LafayettePhone: 303-665-0115TRU PACEs Lafayette center is at 2593 Park Lane. The program coordinates medical and social services and arranges transportation to the day center and medical visits as needed. Ask the enrollment team what a typical center day includes, how often a participant might attend, and how the team decides what support to arrange at home. Who May QualifyPACE applicants must be at least 55, live in the programs service area, meet the states standard for nursing home-level care, and be able to live safely in the community with PACE support at enrollment. Ask how enrollment would affect access to current doctors and prescription coverage before making a decision.  Why This Matters in LafayetteWhen family members already drive someone to several appointments a week, a coordinated schedule can change who needs to be available and when. Ask how pickup would work at the persons Lafayette address and who to call if a ride or appointment changes. How to Get Started1. Ask for an Eligibility ReviewCall TRU PACE. Have the participants ZIP code, current coverage, and a short list of the help they need. 2. Ask to Visit the CenterFind out what the participant might do on a center day, how transportation works, and what changes to their current care arrangements enrollment would involve. Related Seniors Blue Book CategoriesCare Management Transportation Respite Care

Local Services By This Author

TRU PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly)

Medicare/Medicaid/Insurance

TRU PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly)  is a comprehensive program designed to support seniors who wish to maintain their independence while receiving the medical and supportive care they need. Operating under the umbrella of TRU Community Care, TRU PACE offers a seamless solution for older adults who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid by providing a complete continuum of care tailored to meet the unique needs of seniors with chronic health conditions.TRU PACE is part of the nationwide Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, a model that integrates medical and supportive services to help older adults continue living safely in their homes and communities. Designed for individuals aged 55 and older who are eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, or both, TRU PACE provides coordinated, person-centered care. This approach ensures that participants receive the services they need to enhance their quality of life and maintain their independence for as long as possible.To enroll in TRU PACE, participants must meet certain eligibility criteria:Age: Must be 55 years or older.Residency: Live within the TRU PACE service area, which includes select locations around Lafayette, CO, and neighboring communities.Care Needs: Require a nursing-home level of care as determined by the state but can safely live in their home with the assistance of TRU PACE services.Financial Eligibility: Be eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, or both, or have the ability to pay privately.Comprehensive Services Offered by TRU PACETRU PACE provides a full range of medical and supportive services, all coordinated by a dedicated interdisciplinary team. These services include:Medical ServicesPrimary Care: Access to experienced physicians and nurse practitioners who specialize in geriatric care.Specialist Care: Coordinated access to specialists for specific health conditions, ensuring comprehensive treatment plans.Pharmacy Services: Prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs included at no additional cost to participants.Rehabilitation Therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy tailored to individual needs.Emergency Services: Round-the-clock access to urgent care when required.Supportive ServicesAdult Day Center: A safe and engaging environment where participants can socialize and take part in various activities.Transportation: Reliable transportation to and from medical appointments and the TRU PACE Day Center.Nutrition: Nutritious meals and dietary counseling to promote healthy living.Personal Care: Assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.Home Care: Support services provided in the comfort of participants homes.Social and Emotional SupportSocial Work Services: Emotional support and counseling for participants and their families.Caregiver Support: Resources and respite care to assist family members and caregivers.Social Activities: Opportunities for social engagement to reduce isolation and improve mental well-being.One of the hallmarks of TRU PACE is its interdisciplinary team, which includes physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, and other professionals who work together to create and manage individualized care plans. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of a participants health and well-being is addressed, from preventive care to ongoing treatment for chronic conditions. By coordinating care through a single program, TRU PACE eliminates the need for participants to navigate the complexities of multiple healthcare providers and insurance plans.Medicare and Medicaid Coverage with TRU PACETRU PACE simplifies healthcare access for those eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, or both. Participants typically do not have to pay deductibles, premiums, or copayments for services covered by the program. Additionally, TRU PACE covers prescription medications, medical equipment, and other healthcare needs, offering significant financial relief to seniors and their families. For those who do not qualify for Medicaid, TRU PACE offers an affordable private pay option, ensuring that everyone has access to comprehensive care.Benefits of TRU PACEIndependence: Enables seniors to stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible.Comprehensive Care: Addresses all aspects of health and wellness through integrated services.Cost Savings: Reduces out-of-pocket expenses for eligible participants by covering a wide range of services.Simplified Access: Eliminates the need to juggle multiple providers and insurance plans.Peace of Mind: Provides families and caregivers with support, resources, and reassurance.Serving Lafayette, CO, and Surrounding CommunitiesBy combining local expertise with the nationally recognized PACE model, TRU PACE offers a trusted solution for aging adults and their families. The programs Day Center, located in Lafayette, serves as a hub for medical care, social interaction, and therapeutic activities, making it a cornerstone of the programs success.If you or a loved one are seeking a compassionate, all-inclusive care program, TRU PACE is here to help. To learn more about eligibility requirements, services offered, or the enrollment process, visit TRU PACEs website or contact their friendly team today. Take the first step toward maintaining independence, improving quality of life, and accessing the comprehensive care you deserve with TRU PACE. Enroll in TRU PACE Today

TRU PACE

PACE

TRU PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly)  is a comprehensive program designed to support seniors who wish to maintain their independence while receiving the medical and supportive care they need. Operating under the umbrella of TRU Community Care, TRU PACE offers a seamless solution for older adults who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid by providing a complete continuum of care tailored to meet the unique needs of seniors with chronic health conditions.TRU PACE is part of the nationwide Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, a model that integrates medical and supportive services to help older adults continue living safely in their homes and communities. Designed for individuals aged 55 and older who are eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, or both, TRU PACE provides coordinated, person-centered care. This approach ensures that participants receive the services they need to enhance their quality of life and maintain their independence for as long as possible.To enroll in TRU PACE, participants must meet certain eligibility criteria:Age: Must be 55 years or older.Residency: Live within the TRU PACE service area, which includes select locations around Lafayette, CO, and neighboring communities.Care Needs: Require a nursing-home level of care as determined by the state but can safely live in their home with the assistance of TRU PACE services.Financial Eligibility: Be eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, or both, or have the ability to pay privately.Comprehensive Services Offered by TRU PACETRU PACE provides a full range of medical and supportive services, all coordinated by a dedicated interdisciplinary team. These services include:Medical ServicesPrimary Care: Access to experienced physicians and nurse practitioners who specialize in geriatric care.Specialist Care: Coordinated access to specialists for specific health conditions, ensuring comprehensive treatment plans.Pharmacy Services: Prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs included at no additional cost to participants.Rehabilitation Therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy tailored to individual needs.Emergency Services: Round-the-clock access to urgent care when required.Supportive ServicesAdult Day Center: A safe and engaging environment where participants can socialize and take part in various activities.Transportation: Reliable transportation to and from medical appointments and the TRU PACE Day Center.Nutrition: Nutritious meals and dietary counseling to promote healthy living.Personal Care: Assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.Home Care: Support services provided in the comfort of participants homes.Social and Emotional SupportSocial Work Services: Emotional support and counseling for participants and their families.Caregiver Support: Resources and respite care to assist family members and caregivers.Social Activities: Opportunities for social engagement to reduce isolation and improve mental well-being.One of the hallmarks of TRU PACE is its interdisciplinary team, which includes physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, and other professionals who work together to create and manage individualized care plans. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of a participants health and well-being is addressed, from preventive care to ongoing treatment for chronic conditions. By coordinating care through a single program, TRU PACE eliminates the need for participants to navigate the complexities of multiple healthcare providers and insurance plans.Medicare and Medicaid Coverage with TRU PACETRU PACE simplifies healthcare access for those eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, or both. Participants typically do not have to pay deductibles, premiums, or copayments for services covered by the program. Additionally, TRU PACE covers prescription medications, medical equipment, and other healthcare needs, offering significant financial relief to seniors and their families. For those who do not qualify for Medicaid, TRU PACE offers an affordable private pay option, ensuring that everyone has access to comprehensive care.Benefits of TRU PACEIndependence: Enables seniors to stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible.Comprehensive Care: Addresses all aspects of health and wellness through integrated services.Cost Savings: Reduces out-of-pocket expenses for eligible participants by covering a wide range of services.Simplified Access: Eliminates the need to juggle multiple providers and insurance plans.Peace of Mind: Provides families and caregivers with support, resources, and reassurance.Serving Lafayette, CO, and Surrounding CommunitiesBy combining local expertise with the nationally recognized PACE model, TRU PACE offers a trusted solution for aging adults and their families. The programs Day Center, located in Lafayette, serves as a hub for medical care, social interaction, and therapeutic activities, making it a cornerstone of the programs success.If you or a loved one are seeking a compassionate, all-inclusive care program, TRU PACE is here to help. To learn more about eligibility requirements, services offered, or the enrollment process, visit TRU PACEs website or contact their friendly team today. Take the first step toward maintaining independence, improving quality of life, and accessing the comprehensive care you deserve with TRU PACE. Enroll in TRU PACE Today

TRU PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly)

Adult Day Services

TRU PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) coordinates and provides all needed so that older individuals can continue living safely in their community. Delivering all needed medical and supportive services, TRU PACE provides the entire continuum of care and services to seniors with chronic care needs while maintaining independence in their homes for as long as possible. TRU PACE participants must receive all needed healthcare, including primary care and special physician services (other than emergency services) from TRU PACE contracted providers.TRU PACE is a program of TRU Community Care.