বিভাগ: ব্লগ

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The golden years are often depicted as a happy, worry-free time, but the reality is that many older adults are dealing with new sources of stress. According to the National Council on Aging, some of the most common causes are:

• Chronic illness
• Caregiving responsibilities
• Loss and grief
• Feeling of isolation and loneliness
• Financial worries
• Major life changes including retirement or moving

CenterLight Healthcare’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) provides older adults with services that support their mental, physical and social health so they can enjoy this time in their life — feeling healthy, happy and stress-free.  

Just Keep Moving!

Physical and mental health go hand in hand. Being active can boost your mood, improve sleep and support overall well-being. At CenterLight PACE, our rehabilitation team works with participants on building and maintaining strength and managing health conditions so they can remain living safely and independently at home. Our PACE Centers also have an open gym that have state-of-the-art equipment available for use. Participants also enjoy dance, yoga, chair exercise and other movement activities offered on site.

Take Time to Relax and Connect with Others

CenterLight PACE Centers have something for everyone, whether it’s rediscovering an old hobby or finding a new passion.Participants enjoy art, crafts, music, gardening, trips, outdoor activities and so much more. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy what you love. Our Therapeutic Recreation team plans activities to suit the needs of participants.

Eat Well to Age Well

Food is fuel and provides many health benefits. CenterLight PACE Centers offer healthy breakfast and lunch options to participants. Our Nutrition Team also works with participants to create individualized meal plans to help them manage chronic diseases.

Prevention is Better Than a Cure

One of the biggest causes of stress for older adults is living with chronic illnesses. It’s more important than ever to keep up with preventive care to identify potential health issues early and prevent them from getting worse. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over 90% of older adults have at least one chronic condition. With all-inclusive care, our medical services are located within our PACE center. Transportation is provided to and from the PACE center or appointments with in-network community providers. For those who can’t travel, home care services are also an option.   

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE সম্পর্কে

CenterLight’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) aims to provide whole-person care that enriches the lives of participants and helps them live safely in their homes and communities. The care teams at our 11 PACE Centers work side by side to provide knowledgeable, attentive and culturally sensitive care to our members and are fluent in both the languages and customs of our participants.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

About the Author

This blog post is written by Kim Sodano, LCSW, LNHA, Director of Social Work at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

In her own words:

"I became a social worker to make a positive impact toward social change. Being an advocate for individuals and communities while witnessing resilience and transformation is extremely rewarding."

Sources:
Important facts about falls. (2024). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/about/index.html
Trends in Multiple Chronic Conditions Among US Adults. (2025). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2025/24_0539.htm
Managing Stress. (2025). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/mental-health/living-with/index.html
Stress and How to Reduce It: A Guide for Older Adults. (2025). https://www.ncoa.org/article/stress-and-how-to-reduce-it-a-guide-for-older-adults/

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Managing Stress
Updated April 20, 2026

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It’s an emotional time when a loved one is facing a medical crisis. Family members may need to step in and make quick decisions on your behalf — often without knowing exactly what you would want. This can lead to stress, uncertainty and even conflict.  

Conversations about end-of-life care are never easy. They are deeply personal and often shaped by culture, faith and values. But taking control of your future healthcare decisions can provide peace of mind — not just for you, but for your loved ones as well. After all, it’s your decision that matters.

What are Advance Directives?

Advance Directives are legal documents that outline your healthcare wishes in case you are unable to speak for yourself.

With a little planning, you can clearly communicate your preferences to help your family, caregivers and healthcare providers follow the decisions that matter most to you.

Make Your Wishes Known: The Importance of Advance Directives

“Although advance care planning is a critical part of patient care, only about 50% of older adults have engaged in advance care planning. Of those older adults, about one-third have documented their wishes and only 10%–20% discussed their wishes with clinicians,” according to the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). The reasons vary, but may include lack of awareness or understanding, procrastination, or discomfort discussing the topic.

Having a plan in place can:

• Let your voice be heard when it matters most.
• Ensure your loved ones are not left guessing and feeling overwhelmed.
• Help reduce family conflict or disagreements.
• Allow your care team to better understand your choices and act quickly.

Types of Advance Directives

• A Health Care Proxy lets you choose someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf.
  
• A Living Will explains the type of medical care you would or would not want. This may include preferences about:
  • Life-sustaining treatmentsFeeding tubes or IV nutrition
  • Pain management and comfort care.

• A Medical Order of Life Sustaining Treatment (MOLST) is a medical form that translates your wishes into a doctor’s orders that must be followed by healthcare professionals, including emergency personnel. The document travels with you across care settings — home, hospital or nursing facility. It may include decisions about:
  • CPRUse of breathing machines
  • Hospital transfers and other life-sustaining measures.

• A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) is a written order signed by a healthcare provider for people who are seriously ill or are at an advanced age and do not want any life-saving measures if their breathing or heart stops. They will still receive care to keep them comfortable.

Your preferences may change over time, so it’s important to review and update your advance directives — especially after major life or health changes.

Don’t Wait for a Crisis

Planning for the future is a gift — to yourself and to the people who care about you. By taking the time now to make your wishes known, you can reduce stress and ensure your decisions are honored.

Speak to your healthcare provider for more information.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE is committed to providing accurate information to help individuals plan for the future and make informed decisions about their care and personal wishes. The information in this material is strictly educational. We recommend consulting with a social worker, legal advisor or medical provider.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Kim Sodano, LCSW, LNHA, Director of Social Work at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

In her own words:

"At CenterLight PACE, helping our participants prepare advance directives is part of supporting their health and independence. Planning ahead not only ensures that their wishes are honored — it provides their family and caregivers with peace of mind.”

সূত্র:

Advance Care Planning: Advance Directives for Health Care (October 31, 2022), NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA) nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/advance-care-planning-advance-directives-health-care
Advance Care Planning (July 2025), New York State Department of Health (July, 2025), health.ny.gov/community/advance_care_planning/Advance Care PlanningAdvance Care Planning (n.d.), National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), ncqa.org/report-cards/health-plans/state-of-health-care-quality-report/advance-care-planning-acp/

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Advance Directive
Updated April 9, 2026

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When you visit your medical provider, it’s important to let them know any concerns you may have. Feeling prepared can turn an intimidating appointment into a productive conversation that centers on you. When you take an active role, your care becomes more personal and more aligned with what matters most to you.

A little preparation goes a long way. Before your appointment, take time to organize your thoughts so you can focus on the conversation, not on trying to remember details.

Before you arrive:

• Write down the questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Bring an up‑to‑date list of all medications you take, including vitamins and supplements.
• Make note of any new symptoms, changes in how you feel, or concerns you’ve noticed since your last appointment.
• Write down recommendations or instructions you’ve received from other medical providers, specialists, or members of your care team.

If you are prepared, your medical provider can better understand your needs and you can get the most from your visit.

During your visit: speak up and stay engaged.

Remember that your appointment is a conversation, not a one‑way exchange. It's your health, so you deserve clear explanations and thoughtful answers from your care providers.

• Bring paper and a pen so you can write down important details or next steps.
• If something isn’t clear, let your medical provider know. It’s okay to ask for an explanation and ask questions.
• If they're available, consider bringing a trusted family member, friend, or caregiver for support or note‑taking.
• Ask about different treatment options and what they mean for you.
• Share your expectations and be open about what you do not want.

Your voice matters. The more your medical provider understands you, the better they can support your health goals.

After your appointment:

Once your visit is over, take time to reflect and follow up if needed.

• Review your notes and make sure you understand any instructions or next steps.
• Share updates from your visit with your caregiver and/or care team.
• Remember: you have the right to change medical providers if you are not satisfied with your care.
• If you feel unsure, it’s okay to seek a second medical opinion.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

About the Author

This blog post is written by Wendy Williams, LCSW, Social Worker at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

In her own words:

“I became a social worker because I want to help people live happier and healthier lives. Over the years, I have seen people from different backgrounds experience challenges without the proper support, and I want to help make a positive difference in the community.”

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Advocacy
Updated March 4, 2026

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Over the past decade, hoarding has been in the spotlight. Popular media and TV shows focus on extreme cases and portray it as messiness or laziness, but it is, in fact, far more complex. Hoarding is a mental health condition that affects how people think, feel, and make decisions about their possessions, and, often, about their sense of safety and identity.

What Is Hoarding?

Hoarding Disorder (HD) is characterized by persistent difficulty throwing away or parting with possessions, regardless of their monetary value. This difficulty comes from a strong emotional attachment to items or a fear of losing something important. Someone with HD may also associate their sense of who they are with the items they accumulate throughout their life.

How Common is Hoarding?

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, about 2-3% of adults or roughly 6.86-10.29 million people in the United States are affected by HD. In addition, the National Library of Medicine estimates that about 6% of adults over the age of 60-70 struggle with HD, with the United States Senate reporting similar numbers (about 6% of adults over age 70).

In long-term care settings, data shows that HD is common in approximately 25% of those who attend social day care and approximately 15% of nursing home residents.

Why People Hoard

Understanding the reasons why people hoard is essential for responding with empathy rather than judgment. Common reasons for hoarding include:

• Emotional attachment: Objects may have a deep sentimental value and represent memories, relationships, or a sense of comfort.
• Fear and anxiety: Worries about needing an item in the future or making the “wrong” decision by throwing it away.
• Trauma or loss: Hoarding can develop as a coping mechanism after the individual experiences grief, abuse, or sudden life changes.
• Decision-making difficulties: Sorting and prioritizing can feel overwhelming.

The Impact of Hoarding

Left unaddressed, hoarding can affect overall quality of life. It can have serious consequences for individuals, as well as their families.

• Cluttered spaces can increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
• Mold and pest infestations can affect the person’s physical health, as well as the community. For example, some pests can transmit diseases and cause the spread of illnesses.
• Clutter can result in fires.
• Hoarding can result in shame and social isolation, affecting the emotional and mental well-being of the individual.

Why “Just Clean It Up” Doesn’t Work

Effective support focuses not just on the belongings, but on the person. One of the biggest misunderstandings about hoarding is that it can be solved by simply throwing things away and cleaning the space. In reality, forced or sudden decluttering often causes intense distress and can make the problem worse. When the underlying thoughts and emotions aren’t addressed, clutter usually returns. Sometimes, hoarding can become more severe than before.

Approaches to Help and Healing

Therapy

Behavioral Health approaches tailored to hoarding can help individuals better understand their beliefs about possessions. Addressing the reasons why someone has HD is important in addressing the root cause of the issue.

Gradual Decluttering

Small, manageable steps can reduce overwhelm and build confidence that there is a solution.

Compassionate Support

Family and friends who listen without judgment can make a powerful difference.

Professional Help

Trained therapists, social workers, or professional organizers experienced with hoarding disorders can provide assistance, structure and safety.

How to Support Someone Who Hoards

If you care about someone who struggles with hoarding, patience and empathy are key. Avoid shaming language, ultimatums, or cleaning up without consent.

Instead, focus on making the individual feel safe, and listen to their concerns and fears. Provide assistance, take things a step at a time, and celebrate small victories. Remind them that they are not alone—you are there to help, and you can seek the help of professionals and community resources. Remember that trust is essential, and change happens at the person’s own pace.

For CenterLight Healthcare PACE Participants and Caregivers

If you or your loved one is affected by HD, contact your social worker or speak with a member of the CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) care team. We provide supportive social work services and referrals to behavioral health management to participants as needed.

A Message of Compassion

It is important to bear in mind that hoarding is not a moral failing. It is often rooted in emotional and mental health. With understanding, support, and compassion, people who hoard can make meaningful progress. By shifting the conversation from judgment to empathy, we open the door to real help and real hope.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

About the Author

This blog post is written by Kim Sodano, LCSW, LNHA, Director of Social Work at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

In her own words:

"I became a social worker to make a positive impact toward social change. Being an advocate for individuals and communities while witnessing resilience and transformation is extremely rewarding."

সূত্র:

What Is Hoarding Disorder? Symptoms, Causes, and Evidence-Based Care, Anxiety and Depression Association of America https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/what-is-hoarding-disorder

United States Census https://www.census.gov/popclock/

Age-specific prevalence of hoarding and obsessive compulsive disorder: a population-based study, National Library of Medicine https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5316500/

The Consequences of Clutter https://www.aging.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/the_consequences_of_clutter.pdf

Hoarding Behavior in the Elderly: A Comparison Between Community-Dwelling Persons and Nursing Home Residents https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1041610224045009?

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Hoarding
Updated January 20, 2026

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Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings challenges—especially when it comes to staying steady on your feet. Cold temperatures, icy surfaces, and bulky clothing can increase the risk of slips and falls. With a few practical steps, you can enjoy winter while staying safe and confident.

Why Winter Increases Fall Risk

During winter months, falls are more common due to:

• Ice and snow on walkways
• Wet floors due to rain or snow
• Reduced daylight and visibility
• Stiff joints and muscles in cold weather
• Wearing heavier or unfamiliar footwear

The good news is that many falls are preventable with awareness and preparation.

Stay Steady Outdoors

When going outside during winter, keep the following in mind:

• Wear supportive, non-slip shoes with good traction. Avoid smooth soles.
• Take small, slow steps and allow extra time to get where you’re going.
• Use handrails whenever available, especially on steps and ramps.
• Watch for black ice, which can be very dangerous and hard to see.
• Consider using a cane or walker if recommended—it provides extra stability.

If conditions are icy and unsafe, it’s okay to stay indoors and ask for help when possible.

Keep Your Home Fall-Proof

Simple changes at home can greatly reduce your risk of falling:

• Keep floors dry and clutter-free.
• Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing.
• Ensure good lighting, especially in hallways and bathrooms. Night lights can also help.
• Wear non-slip socks or shoes indoors.
• Use grab bars in the bathroom if available.

Keep Moving—Safely

Staying active helps maintain strength, balance, and flexibility, even in winter.

• Continue with your rehabilitation exercises as advised by your physical or occupational therapist. Consult a rehabilitation therapist or medical professional to find out what exercise is right for you.
• Gentle stretching helps reduce stiffness caused by cold weather.
• Let your rehabilitation therapist or medical professional know if you feel weaker, dizzy, or unsteady.

Strong muscles and good balance are some of the best defenses against falls.

Dress for Safety and Warmth

• Wear layers to stay warm without restricting movement.
• Avoid long coats, scarves, or pants that may drag on the ground and cause you to trip.
• Keep hands warm with gloves to maintain a good grip on rails or walking aids.

Listen to Your Body

Falls often happen when we’re in a hurry. If you feel tired, dizzy, or unsteady:

• Stop and rest.
• Sit down if needed.
• Don’t rush, especially when standing up from a chair or bed.

For CenterLight Healthcare PACE Participants

We're Here to Help

At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), our participants' safety and independence are our priority. Please talk to your Rehabilitation Team if:

• You’ve had a recent fall or near-fall.
• You feel less confident walking.
• You’d like help reviewing your home safety or walking aids.

Your safety matters to us, and small changes can make a big difference.

Final Thought

Winter doesn’t have to limit your independence. By staying aware, prepared, and supported, you can move through the season with confidence and peace of mind.

Stay safe, stay warm, and remember that you are not alone.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

About the Author

This blog post is written by Tatyana Brisman, PT, Regional Rehabilitation Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE. Tatyana celebrated her 20th year of working at CenterLight in 2025.

In her own words:

"Over the years, my responsibilities have evolved, but my mission has remained the same: to ensure our participants are safe in their communities by providing high quality care and being a supportive, collaborative member of the care team. Being a Physical Therapist is more than just a job—it’s a calling. And I’m grateful every day to be part of a field that makes such a difference in people's lives."

Source: Geriatric Winter Falls: When a Simple Bump on the Ice Can be Serious, Mayo Clinic

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_WinterFallTips2026
Updated January 8, 2026

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As we age, our healthcare needs often become more complex, making preventive care increasingly important. For older adults, staying proactive about health can lead to a more vibrant and independent life. Start 2026 right and make wellness your goal – not only for yourself, but for those who love and care about you!

What is Preventive Care?

The goal of preventive care is to identify potential health issues early to prevent them from getting worse. This involves regular check-ups and screenings, vaccinations, and making lifestyle choices that can help prevent illness and support healthy aging.

At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), our goal is to catch problems early or help prevent them altogether, so that our participants can avoid unnecessary hospital stays and remain living in their own home and communities for as long as possible. The importance of Preventive Care is illustrated by the average emergency department visit and hospital admission rates in our participants compared to the nationwide rate:

In general, Preventive Care includes:

• Regular visits to your primary care provider and annual physical exams can facilitate early detection of issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic diseases.
• Recommended screenings include cholesterol, cancer (such as colon, breast, and prostate), blood pressure, osteoporosis, vision, and hearing tests.
• Regular dental visits.
• Immunizations like the flu shot, shingles vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine, and COVID-19 boosters help prevent serious illnesses that can be especially dangerous for older adults.
• Screening for depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline is crucial for emotional well-being and social engagement.
• Regular medication reviews ensure what you are taking is still appropriate for your current condition and help prevent harmful drug interactions or side effects.

Overcoming Barriers to Preventive Care

Older adults may face challenges such as transportation, limited movement, financial constraints, or lack of awareness about available services. Family members, caregivers, and community organizations can play a vital role in helping them access preventive care.

If you are a CenterLight Healthcare PACE participant, remember that you have access to transportation to and from your medical appointments and the PACE center. See your medical provider regularly. In addition, your care team, made up of doctors, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, dietitians, and therapeutic recreation specialists, among others, will schedule assessments every six months to ensure that your care plan is up to date. Notify your care team regarding any change in condition so that we can help right away.

In conclusion...

Preventive care is a cornerstone of healthy aging. By staying informed, attending regular check-ups, and embracing healthy habits, older adults can enjoy a higher quality of life. If you or your loved ones are unsure where to start, consult a healthcare provider to develop a personalized preventive care plan. Small steps today can lead to big benefits tomorrow.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

About the Author

Patricia Connelly serves as Chief Operations Officer at CenterLight Healthcare. Inspired by her mother who is a retired registered nurse, Patty built her career around a passion for caring for others. When asked what she enjoys most about working in healthcare, Patty shares that engaging with the participants who rely on CenterLight for their care is the most rewarding and fulfilling part of her role. “It is inspiring to hear their stories and to know that we make a meaningful difference in their lives,” she says.

সূত্র:

National Center for Health Statistics | The Commonwealth Fund

CenterLight data obtained through monthly Quality Performance Improvement measures.

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_PreventiveCare2026
Updated January 5, 2026