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National PACE (Programs of All-inclusive Care for the
Elderly) Month is an annual celebration in the United States that takes place
in the month of September. This month-long event aims to raise awareness about
the PACE program and the important role it plays in enhancing the lives of
elderly individuals. Senior LIFE is a provider of the PACE program, called
LIFE in Pennsylvania. The innovative model of care allows seniors with
long-term care needs to remain living in their community for as long as
possible, as independently as possible. More than 95 percent of PACE
participants live outside of a nursing home.
The COVID-19 public health emergency taught everyone the
value of community and the feeling of belonging. Loneliness and isolation have
long been been issues for our seniors. This year, during National PACE Month,
we celebrate the connections and communities that LIFE/PACE organizations can
foster. This year’s theme is “PACE: Where you Belong.”
Understanding the PACE Program
The LIFE/PACE
program is a comprehensive, community-based healthcare model for
elderly adults who need long-term care services. It provides a range of medical
and social services to seniors, helping them live independently in their own
homes and communities. LIFE is designed to provide personalized and coordinated
care that takes into account the unique needs of each individual.
The Goals of National PACE Month
National PACE Month serves several important goals:
Getting Involved
Anyone can get involved in National PACE Month and help
promote its goals. Here are a few ways to participate:
Senior LIFE and National PACE Month
Senior LIFE will recognize PACE Month with a special week
long celebration held at each of the LIFE
Health and Wellness Center. The special week recognizes the efforts,
volunteerism, and extraordinary talents of the Senior LIFE staff and members.
This year’s event will be held September 5th – September 8th
at each of the LIFE Health
and Wellness Centers.
The annual week-long event will be filled with activities
and events that will engage Senior LIFE with the local community. Past years’
have featured events such as scavenger hunts, wheel chair races, and carnival
days.
All activities will take part at the LIFE Health and
Wellness Centers. At the center, members of the LIFE Program can see their
Primary Care Physicians and participate in rehabilitation programs.
LIFE is a team-based model of care based on the idea of
effectively and efficiently treating patients with multiple chronic conditions
outside of the hospital setting. The LIFE Program takes a comprehensive
approach to care management: providers, homecare coordinators, transportation
drivers, nurses, social workers, physical and occupational therapists,
dietitians, recreational therapists, and others, who evaluate LIFE members and
develop an individualized plan of care. Medical and supportive service services
are provided with the intention of putting preventive support in place that
sets seniors up to remain living in their homes long term, all at no cost to
seniors on Medicaid who live in the community.
National PACE Month is an important opportunity to raise
awareness about the PACE program and its impact on the lives of seniors. By
coming together as a community, we can celebrate the successes, advocate for
improvements, and ensure that the PACE program continues to provide exceptional
care and support to our elderly population. Let’s make National PACE Month 2023
a time of gratitude, recognition, and a catalyst for positive change in senior
care.
To find out more about the LIFE Program, or to see if you
qualify for the program, please contact us today!
How to Approach Tough Senior Move ConversationsGentle Talks That Open the Door to a Brighter Tomorrow Few conversations are as emotionally delicate as discussing a move with a senior loved one. Whether its downsizing to a smaller home, transitioning to assisted living, or clearing a longtime residence, these talks touch deep feelings of independence, memory, and identity. For many families, this moment is filled with uncertainty: How do we bring it up? Will they feel hurt or betrayed? What if they say no?At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe that these tender conversations, when handled with care and love, can become opportunities for connection and growth. With the right approach, families can honor their loved ones feelings while gently guiding them toward a new chapter of safety and peace.Start with Empathy, Not LogisticsLead with the heart, and the rest will follow.Before any talk of movers or packing, remember this: a seniors home is not just a building. Its a lifetime of memories, milestones, and meaning. That kitchen may hold memories of holiday dinners. That chair might be where Dad read his morning paper. A move often feels like leaving part of themselves behind.Here are heartfelt steps to begin the conversation:1. Choose the Right Time and PlaceAvoid rushing into the topic during a stressful or emotional moment. Find a quiet, private time when everyone is calm. This shows respect and allows space for open, honest communication.2. Listen First, Talk SecondAsk gentle questions like, How are you feeling about the house these days? or Is anything at home starting to feel overwhelming? Listening with compassion builds trustand trust makes future decisions easier.3. Acknowledge Their EmotionsSay things like, I know this is really hard, or I can see how much this home means to you. Validating their emotions shows them youre not just trying to make decisions for them, but with them.4. Focus on Their Well-BeingCenter the conversation on care and safety, not on whats convenient for the family. Share your concerns lovingly: I want you to feel safe when moving around the house, or We want to make sure youre comfortable and supported every day.Build a Plan Together, One Gentle Step at a TimeEmpowerment is the bridge between fear and acceptance.Once the initial conversation has opened the door, its time to move forwardbut slowly, and with full inclusion. Seniors who feel part of the planning process are more likely to accept and embrace the move.1. Make a Family PlanGather key family members and involve the senior. Together, outline a general timeline, and identify roles. Who will help with packing? Who will handle paperwork? Make sure the seniors voice is front and center.2. Consider Professional SupportThis is where A Call to Order Professional Organizer comes in. We help remove overwhelm by guiding seniors and families through every phase of the move. Our team offers compassionate, step-by-step assistancefrom organizing and downsizing to setting up their new home with care.3. Take Breaks and Celebrate ProgressEmotionally heavy tasks like sorting through a lifetime of belongings can take a toll. Build in regular breaks. Reflect on joyful memories. Celebrate small wins, like donating gently used items to a local charity or passing heirlooms down to grandchildren.4. Tour New Spaces TogetherIf the move includes a transition to assisted living or a smaller home, visit the new space together. Talk about how to make it feel cozy and familiar. Bring their favorite chair or family photos. Let them dream a little about decorating or setting up a new routine.Loving Conversations Build Stronger FuturesApproaching a senior move isnt easybut it doesnt have to be heartbreaking. With tenderness, patience, and the right support, these conversations can lead to safer environments, simpler living, and a renewed sense of peace.At A Call to Order, we believe in honoring the emotional side of every move. Were here to help families bridge the gap between I cant imagine leaving and Im ready for whats next.Lets make this transition togetherwith love, understanding, and a plan made just for your family. Ready to talk about a senior move with kindness and clarity?Visit www.acalltoorderco.com or call 719-231-5425.Because every move deserves more than just boxesit deserves a soft place to land.FOLLOW US and stay inspired as you simplify and transition with love: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/acalltoorderco/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACalltoOrder Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acalltoorderco/
Many married couples share almost everything, including finances. This may be reflected in their estate plan by using one joint living trust instead of two separate trusts. Separate trusts can provide greater flexibility, but a joint trust can be structured so that when one spouse passes away, the trust is split into two sub-trusts: a survivors trust and a decedents trust. This arrangement provides the surviving spouse with the same versatility that separate trusts offer. The surviving spouse has full control over their survivors trust, but may have limited control over the deceased spouses accounts and property that make up the decedents trust. Decedents Trust and a Survivors Trust A survivors trust is a middle ground between a joint trust and separate trusts. If a couple chooses to combine their assets (accounts and property) into a joint revocable living trust, both spouses will usually be named as trustees and beneficiaries. The joint trust can further stipulate that when one spouse passes away, the trust divides into subtrusts. One of those subtrusts can be a survivors trust. A second subtrust, the decedents trust, will also be created to hold and manage assets owned by the decedent. How a Survivors Trust Works A typical joint trust arrangement lists four types of property, depending on the state in which you live: Joint assets Community property First spouses separate property Second spouses separate property When the first spouse dies, the survivors trust receives one-half of the community property, one-half of the joint property, and all property identified as the separate property of the surviving spouse. The deceased spouses half of the community property and joint property, along with their separate property, may be funded into the decedents trust with its own set of instructions. The trust agreement could also state that all of the deceased spouses property will go into the survivors trust instead of going into a separate subtrust. Reasons to Have a Survivors Trust Regardless of exactly how the joint trust assets are allocated, a crucial distinction is that a survivors trust is revocable, while the decedents sub-trust is irrevocable. This means that the surviving spouse retains full control over the survivors trust. They can alter the terms of the trust however they want. For example, they can add and remove assets, change beneficiaries, appoint new trustees, or terminate the trust. The surviving spouse can also completely change the terms of the survivors trust in its entirety. While the surviving spouse may be the beneficiary of the decedents trust, the surviving spouse will likely have less control over the management of assets in the decedents trust. This allows the deceased spouse to put protective measures in place while they are alive to make sure that their assets are managed the way they want and that someone cannot change the rules after they pass away. This can be helpful for clients who are worried about their spouse remarrying after their death and to ensure that assets that remain at the surviving spouses death go to a predetermined person. The purpose of any trust is to take care of loved ones and protect assets from costly probate and taxes. To discuss an estate plan that meets your goals, please schedule your appointment with our Estate Planning attorneys - 724-375-4005.
Becoming eligible for Medicare is a significant milestone in your life. Whether you are newly turning 65 or approaching eligibility due to disability, understanding your Medicare options can feel overwhelming. With multiple parts, plans, and enrollment periods, making the right choice is essential to protect your health and finances.Thats where Inman Medical Insurance Services steps in helping Medicare-eligible individuals and their families navigate the complex landscape of Medicare insurance with clarity, confidence, and care.Understanding Medicare: A Quick OverviewMedicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, younger individuals with certain disabilities, and those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). It consists of several parts: Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers outpatient services like doctor visits, preventive care, and some home health services. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare and include Part A and B benefits, often with added perks. Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) helps cover the cost of medications through private plans. Choosing the right combination of these parts depends on your health needs, budget, and preferences.Why Professional Guidance Matters When Choosing Medicare PlansMedicare is not a one-size-fits-all program. With dozens of Medicare Advantage and Part D plans available in many areas, it can be challenging to understand differences in coverage, premiums, deductibles, copays, and provider networks. Making an uninformed decision could mean paying more than necessary or missing coverage for services you need.Inman Medical Insurance Services offers personalized Medicare consulting to ensure you: Understand your Medicare benefits and options Identify plans that best fit your health needs and financial situation Avoid costly penalties by enrolling during the correct periods Navigate changes to your Medicare coverage over time This professional guidance saves time, reduces confusion, and empowers you to make decisions with peace of mind.Services Offered by Inman Medical Insurance ServicesAt Inman Medical Insurance Services, youll find a trusted partner with a deep knowledge of Medicare plans and regulations. Their services include:1. Medicare Eligibility CounselingIf youre turning 65 or recently became eligible due to disability, the team helps you understand when and how to enroll in Medicare, including your initial enrollment period and special circumstances.2. Medicare Plan Comparison and EnrollmentThey analyze available Medicare Advantage, Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance), and Part D prescription drug plans in your area. By comparing costs, coverage, and provider networks, they help you select a plan that fits your unique needs.3. Annual Medicare Review and Plan OptimizationMedicare plans can change year to year. Inman Medical Insurance Services offers yearly reviews during the open enrollment period (October 15 December 7) to ensure your plan remains the best option, or help you switch plans if needed.4. Assistance with Medicare Appeals and ClaimsIf you encounter coverage denials or billing issues, their experts assist with navigating appeals and resolving Medicare claims, reducing stress and ensuring your rights are protected.5. Education on Medicare Savings Programs and Financial AssistanceMany Medicare-eligible individuals qualify for programs that reduce costs, such as Medicaid, Extra Help, or state pharmaceutical assistance programs. The team helps you identify and apply for these valuable benefits.Who Can Benefit Most from Inman Medical Insurance Services? Newly Medicare-eligible individuals who want to start their coverage on the right foot. Current Medicare beneficiaries seeking to optimize their plan or save money. Caregivers or family members assisting loved ones with Medicare decisions. Anyone feeling overwhelmed by Medicare's complexity and needing personalized support. Why Choose Inman Medical Insurance Services? Experienced Medicare Specialists: Knowledgeable in local and national Medicare regulations. Personalized Service: Tailored recommendations based on your health, budget, and goals. Trusted Advisor: Committed to education, transparency, and ethical guidance. Local Presence: Familiar with regional plan options and resources in Pennsylvania. Ongoing Support: Available year-round for questions, enrollment, and plan changes. Medicare FAQs Answered by Inman Medical Insurance ServicesQ: When should I sign up for Medicare? A: Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after. Signing up during this window avoids late enrollment penalties.Q: Whats the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap? A: Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are all-in-one coverage offered by private companies and often include extra benefits like vision or dental. Medigap plans supplement Original Medicare by covering out-of-pocket costs.Q: Can I change my Medicare plan every year? A: Yes. During the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 Dec 7), you can switch Medicare Advantage plans or Part D prescription drug plans.Q: How can I reduce my Medicare costs? A: Programs like Medicaid, Extra Help for prescription drugs, and Medicare Savings Programs can lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Inman Medical Insurance Services helps you find and apply for these.Take the Next Step Toward Medicare ConfidenceNavigating Medicare can be complicated, but you dont have to do it alone. Let Inman Medical Insurance Services guide you through the process with clarity and confidence. Their expert support ensures you select the right plan for your needs and budget, now and in the years ahead. For personalized Medicare help and a no-obligation consultation, call us today at 724-306- 8802. 6-8802
The Senior LIFE program, also known as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE), is a comprehensive healthcare and support services program designed to help older adults aged 55 and above live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible, rather than moving to a nursing home. Senior LIFE is a Medicare and Medicaid approved long-term care program that offers a wide range of medical and non-medical services to eligible individuals. It is a one-stop solution for all healthcare needs, providing a dedicated team of professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, and home care coordinators. The program aims to enhance the quality of life for seniors by enabling them to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving the necessary care and support.Eligibility and CostTo be eligible for Senior LIFE, individuals must meet certain age, location, and medical criteria. If eligible for Medicaid and living in the community, there are no monthly premiums, deductibles, or copayments for any approved drug, service, or care provided by Senior LIFE. For those eligible for Medicare but not Medicaid, a monthly premium is charged. Private pay options are also available for those who do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid.Services ProvidedSenior LIFE offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to each member's individual needs. Upon enrollment, members and their families work with an interdisciplinary team to develop a personalized care plan. This plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as the member's needs change. The services provided by Senior LIFE include:Medical Services:- Primary care physician and nursing services- Specialist consultations- Medication management- Diagnostic services (e.g., lab tests, X-rays)- Hospital and nursing home care (when needed)Therapies:- Physical, occupational, and speech therapies- Rehabilitation servicesPersonal Care:- Assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)- Meal preparation and nutritional counseling- Light housekeeping and laundry servicesSocial and Emotional Support:- Social work services and counseling- Recreational activities and socialization opportunities- Dementia care and support Transportation:- Door-to-door transportation to and from the Senior LIFE center and medical appointmentsPalliative Care:- Specialized care for members with life-limiting illnesses- End-of-life care and supportSenior LIFE CentersSenior LIFE operates health and wellness centers in various locations, which serve as hubs for members to receive services. These centers are staffed by healthcare professionals and offer a warm, inviting environment for members to socialize, receive hot meals, see their doctors, and participate in therapies and activities.Interdisciplinary Team Approach - One of the key strengths of the Senior LIFE program is its interdisciplinary team approach. Each member's care is coordinated by a dedicated team of professionals who work together to address their unique needs. This team-based approach ensures that members receive comprehensive and integrated care, with seamless communication and collaboration among all providers.Quality of Life and IndependenceThe goal of Senior LIFE is to enhance the quality of life for older adults and promote their independence. By providing a wide range of services and support, the program aims to help seniors remain active, engaged, and living safely in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, avoiding or delaying the need for nursing home placement. Senior LIFE offers a comprehensive and coordinated approach to caring for older adults, providing a one-stop solution for all their medical, social, and personal care needs. With its dedicated team of professionals, personalized care plans, and commitment to promoting independence and quality of life, the program serves as a valuable alternative to nursing home care for eligible seniors.Contact us to learn more!
The Senior LIFE program, also known as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE), is a comprehensive healthcare and support services program designed to help older adults aged 55 and above live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible, rather than moving to a nursing home. Senior LIFE is a Medicare and Medicaid approved long-term care program that offers a wide range of medical and non-medical services to eligible individuals. It is a one-stop solution for all healthcare needs, providing a dedicated team of professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, and home care coordinators. The program aims to enhance the quality of life for seniors by enabling them to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving the necessary care and support.Eligibility and CostTo be eligible for Senior LIFE, individuals must meet certain age, location, and medical criteria. If eligible for Medicaid and living in the community, there are no monthly premiums, deductibles, or copayments for any approved drug, service, or care provided by Senior LIFE. For those eligible for Medicare but not Medicaid, a monthly premium is charged. Private pay options are also available for those who do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid.Services ProvidedSenior LIFE offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to each member's individual needs. Upon enrollment, members and their families work with an interdisciplinary team to develop a personalized care plan. This plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as the member's needs change. The services provided by Senior LIFE include:Medical Services:- Primary care physician and nursing services- Specialist consultations- Medication management- Diagnostic services (e.g., lab tests, X-rays)- Hospital and nursing home care (when needed)Therapies:- Physical, occupational, and speech therapies- Rehabilitation servicesPersonal Care:- Assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)- Meal preparation and nutritional counseling- Light housekeeping and laundry servicesSocial and Emotional Support:- Social work services and counseling- Recreational activities and socialization opportunities- Dementia care and support Transportation:- Door-to-door transportation to and from the Senior LIFE center and medical appointmentsPalliative Care:- Specialized care for members with life-limiting illnesses- End-of-life care and supportSenior LIFE CentersSenior LIFE operates health and wellness centers in various locations, which serve as hubs for members to receive services. These centers are staffed by healthcare professionals and offer a warm, inviting environment for members to socialize, receive hot meals, see their doctors, and participate in therapies and activities.Interdisciplinary Team Approach - One of the key strengths of the Senior LIFE program is its interdisciplinary team approach. Each member's care is coordinated by a dedicated team of professionals who work together to address their unique needs. This team-based approach ensures that members receive comprehensive and integrated care, with seamless communication and collaboration among all providers.Quality of Life and IndependenceThe goal of Senior LIFE is to enhance the quality of life for older adults and promote their independence. By providing a wide range of services and support, the program aims to help seniors remain active, engaged, and living safely in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, avoiding or delaying the need for nursing home placement. Senior LIFE offers a comprehensive and coordinated approach to caring for older adults, providing a one-stop solution for all their medical, social, and personal care needs. With its dedicated team of professionals, personalized care plans, and commitment to promoting independence and quality of life, the program serves as a valuable alternative to nursing home care for eligible seniors.Contact us to learn more!
The Senior LIFE program, also known as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE), is a comprehensive healthcare and support services program designed to help older adults aged 55 and above live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible, rather than moving to a nursing home. Senior LIFE is a Medicare and Medicaid approved long-term care program that offers a wide range of medical and non-medical services to eligible individuals. It is a one-stop solution for all healthcare needs, providing a dedicated team of professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, and home care coordinators. The program aims to enhance the quality of life for seniors by enabling them to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving the necessary care and support.Eligibility and CostTo be eligible for Senior LIFE, individuals must meet certain age, location, and medical criteria. If eligible for Medicaid and living in the community, there are no monthly premiums, deductibles, or copayments for any approved drug, service, or care provided by Senior LIFE. For those eligible for Medicare but not Medicaid, a monthly premium is charged. Private pay options are also available for those who do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid.Services ProvidedSenior LIFE offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to each member's individual needs. Upon enrollment, members and their families work with an interdisciplinary team to develop a personalized care plan. This plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as the member's needs change. The services provided by Senior LIFE include:Medical Services:- Primary care physician and nursing services- Specialist consultations- Medication management- Diagnostic services (e.g., lab tests, X-rays)- Hospital and nursing home care (when needed)Therapies:- Physical, occupational, and speech therapies- Rehabilitation servicesPersonal Care:- Assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)- Meal preparation and nutritional counseling- Light housekeeping and laundry servicesSocial and Emotional Support:- Social work services and counseling- Recreational activities and socialization opportunities- Dementia care and support Transportation:- Door-to-door transportation to and from the Senior LIFE center and medical appointmentsPalliative Care:- Specialized care for members with life-limiting illnesses- End-of-life care and supportSenior LIFE CentersSenior LIFE operates health and wellness centers in various locations, which serve as hubs for members to receive services. These centers are staffed by healthcare professionals and offer a warm, inviting environment for members to socialize, receive hot meals, see their doctors, and participate in therapies and activities.Interdisciplinary Team Approach - One of the key strengths of the Senior LIFE program is its interdisciplinary team approach. Each member's care is coordinated by a dedicated team of professionals who work together to address their unique needs. This team-based approach ensures that members receive comprehensive and integrated care, with seamless communication and collaboration among all providers.Quality of Life and IndependenceThe goal of Senior LIFE is to enhance the quality of life for older adults and promote their independence. By providing a wide range of services and support, the program aims to help seniors remain active, engaged, and living safely in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, avoiding or delaying the need for nursing home placement. Senior LIFE offers a comprehensive and coordinated approach to caring for older adults, providing a one-stop solution for all their medical, social, and personal care needs. With its dedicated team of professionals, personalized care plans, and commitment to promoting independence and quality of life, the program serves as a valuable alternative to nursing home care for eligible seniors.Contact us to learn more!