PACE Programs Help Seniors Age in Their Homes
These centers provide coordinated medical and social support to help older adults remain independent.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Eldercare
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At the recent OPEN MINDS Technology & Analytics Institute in Philadelphia, experts discussed how PACE programs support seniors with complex care needs. These models offer coordinated medical and social services to help participants live in their own homes longer.
Why it matters
The PACE model provides a critical alternative to institutional care for the roughly 2 million people nationwide who qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare. By integrating health and social support, these programs aim to help seniors age in place within their own communities.
Industry data indicates that more than 200 PACE organizations currently operate 415 centers across 33 states and D.C., serving 98,000 participants. The total reach of these programs remains a small fraction of the 2 million individuals who are dual-eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.
The players
Paul F. Soczynski
A featured panelist who discussed advancements in senior care delivery at the 2026 OPEN MINDS Technology & Analytics Institute.
Grace Li
A healthcare expert and panelist who explored the future of integrated social and medical support systems.
Volunteers of America National Services (VOANS)
A non-profit organization operating eight PACE locations that serve over 1,000 seniors across five states.
The details
PACE programs function by delivering a comprehensive suite of medical, social, therapeutic, and transportation services designed for older adults. Some providers, such as Volunteers of America National Services (VOANS), further integrate these services by co-locating centers directly within affordable housing properties. This approach ensures that clinical care and daily living assistance are physically accessible to seniors who might otherwise struggle to coordinate separate appointments and support systems.
Timeline
October 27-29, 2026: The OPEN MINDS Technology & Analytics Institute took place in Philadelphia.
October 30, 2026: The date of this article publication.
Health Landscape
The growth of PACE centers reflects a broader shift toward integrating social and medical support to keep high-needs seniors in their homes. This approach marks a departure from traditional institutional care models for the dual-eligible population.
If you or a family member are dual-eligible for Medicaid and Medicare, it is worth discussing with your physician whether a local PACE program is an appropriate option for coordinating your care. These programs are designed specifically for those with complex medical and social support needs.
The takeaway
PACE programs offer a coordinated path to aging at home for those with complex health requirements. If you are exploring long-term support, ask your primary care provider about local integrated care options that combine medical and social services.
Further reading
For more on options for managing long-term health needs, visit Eldercare.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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Do you believe community-based care programs effectively help local seniors live independently in their own homes?
