Blog - CenterLight

Celebrating Culture and Connection: Ayesha’s Journey at CenterLight’s South Asian Cultural Center

For Ayesha Siddiqua, a PACE participant who attends the CenterLight South Asian Cultural Center, every visit feels like coming home. Since enrolling in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in early 2023, she has found not just care and support, but a community that honors the traditions closest to her heart. Through CenterLight, Ayesha has discovered that cultural celebration can be a powerful bridge — connecting her past in Bangladesh to her present life in New York.

As a proud Bengali participant, Ayesha shared the holidays that hold deep significance in her life: Victory Day, National Day, Bangladesh Day, Mourning Day, and Pohela Boishakh — the Bengali New Year. Victory Day, celebrated on December 16, marks Bangladesh’s independence after the 1971 Liberation War. At the CenterLight South Asian Cultural Center, participants honor this day by dressing in cultural attire and sharing stories about Bangladesh’s history and resilience. National Day on March 26 commemorates the country’s declaration of independence. Ayesha enjoys the festive gathering, where the national anthem is sung and participants come together to celebrate their heritage.

Participants at CenterLight’s South Asian Cultural Center bring the space to life with their vibrant voices, whether they’re singing, storytelling or speaking into the microphone. On Bangladesh Day, this lively, communal energy fills the room as stories, songs, and laughter are shared. The spirit of celebration extends beyond the participants: Therapeutic Recreation Specialists and staff join in by dressing in traditional saris, creating a shared experience that honors both heritage and community.

Mourning Day, observed on August 15, is a day of reflection to honor the assassination of Bangladesh’s founding leader. On this day, Ayesha and fellow participants wear black as a tribute to their homeland and history. In contrast, Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, brings joy and renewal. Traditionally marked with music, dance, and colorful clothing, it is a time to celebrate life’s new beginnings. At CenterLight, Ayesha and her friends enjoy vibrant artwork and activities that capture the energy and spirit of this holiday.

Ayesha reflects on how meaningful these celebrations have been at CenterLight: “In this country, we are not living with our own country’s people, but when I come to CenterLight I feel like I’m with my own country’s people. When we celebrate, I do not feel alone. I feel like everything is here. I am proud of CenterLight; they give me everything for my own enjoyment.”

Through these cultural celebrations, the Therapeutic Recreation Team at CenterLight’s South Asian Cultural Center helps participants like Ayesha feel connected to their roots while creating opportunities for cross-cultural learning and community. Each holiday is more than a date on the calendar — it’s a way for participants to honor their heritage, share their stories, and experience joy together.

About CenterLight’s South Asian Cultural Center

PACE Centers provide primary care, including physician and nursing services; social services; restorative therapies, including physical therapy and occupational therapy; personal care and supportive services; nutritional services; nutritional counseling; recreational therapy and meals. CenterLight also has Alternative Care Settings (ACS), like the South Asian Cultural Center in Jamaica, Queens, which are an option for participants who prefer a smaller, more intimate setting to receive on-site socialization, social services, personal care services, therapeutic recreation and meals. Other center-based services, such as primary care physician services, nursing and rehabilitation are offered at our PACE Centers.

H3329 BlogAyesha_noPOInfo
Updated 10292025

The Power of Proper Nutrition

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Regardless of your age, good nutrition has a huge impact on health. But as we get older, what we eat is even more essential, because it can help prevent many of the common health conditions that afflict seniors. Here are just a few of the ways that proper nutrition can help older adults treat and prevent illness, and enhance their overall quality of life.

High Blood Pressure Management

High Blood Pressure is a leading risk factor for stroke, heart disease, dementia, and many other health issues that impact older adults. While medication is important, proper nutrition – including a diet high in fruits and vegetables, and
low in sodium and sugar – can also make a real difference.

Diabetes Management

Beyond medication, proper diet can help control diabetes, and help prevent the potential complications it can cause, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Weight Maintenance

Many older adults become thin, frail, and susceptible to illnesses and infections. A healthy diet is essential for keeping the body strong and to maintain a healthy immune system.

Obesity Prevention

Since obesity contributes to arthritis, diabetes and heart conditions, maintaining a healthy weight is important for seniors. Getting guidance from a nutrition professional can help seniors lose weight.

To download a copy of this educational material, please click here.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE is committed to providing accurate health-related information to help individuals live well, stay healthy and make well-informed healthcare decisions. Information in this material is strictly educational. We recommend that users consult with their medical provider regarding their care.

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_PowerOfNutrition
Updated September 23, 2025

Meet CenterLight PACE participant Pablo Soriano | How CenterLight Helps Pablo Keep His Baseball Spirit Alive

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Once in love with baseball, always in love with baseball! According to his daughter, Nurys Wright, her father, CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participant Pablo Soriano, fell in love with the sport at the age of five, which is the typical starting age in the Dominican Republic. On the field, he is known as “El Zurdo,” Spanish for “left-handed.” There was no doubt he stood out in the field when he was able to pitch an 88-mph ball. In the Dominican Republic, it is known as “tirando piedras” or “throwing stones” in English, which means he threw the ball with force. This impressive skill enabled him to go through many games without allowing a single run to score against him.

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Pablo traveled to Puerto Rico, Panama, Venezuela, and other South American countries for baseball. His daughter recalls how her father had the incredible opportunity to meet and play alongside the legendary Roberto Clemente. In fact, he even stayed at Clemente’s house in Puerto Rico. Nurys shares that Clemente recognized Pablo’s talent and was in the process of recommending him for the big leagues before his passing. Pablo continued to play in local teams in the Dominican Republic during the 1980s.

Pablo immigrated to New York City in 1991. He joined an all-timers league in his fifties, continuing to play until he retired in 2005. As a proud father of five, including four daughters and one son, he enjoys sharing his love for baseball with his family. Nurys mentions that he never misses a game, whether it is the Yankees or the Mets. Watching baseball is his favorite pastime. Pablo says with pride, “¡Yo soy pelotero!” when he gets to tell his story, Spanish for “I’m a baseball player!”

This centuries-old sport plays such an integral part in Pablo’s life, and he can still find joy in it. Thanks to our Therapeutic Recreation team here at CenterLight Healthcare PACE, they understand the importance of individual interests among our participants and work to create meaningful experiences for participants like him. They were able to organize a trip to see a live Mets Game against the Padres at Citi Field. During the game, Pablo sat with his friends, wearing the biggest smile on his face. “Nosotros somos par de fanáticos,” Pablo called out, which translates to “We are a couple of fans.” They cheered on the Mets as they hit multiple home runs! The game ended in a win for the Mets. Pablo left Citi Field feeling grateful and happy to have attended. His daughter, Nurys Wright, expressed her gratitude to CenterLight PACE for providing her dad with this experience. She says, “I was happy for him. He kept telling me about it every single day since the trip was announced by CenterLight staff, he was so excited. When he came home, he shared with me what happened in every inning.” Pablo Soriano has been a CenterLight PACE participant since 2024. Through these activities, the Therapeutic Recreation Team not only nurtures Pablo’s passion for baseball but also enhances his overall well-being and quality of life.

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H3329 BlogPablo_noPOInfo
Updated 09292025

Healthy Eating for a Healthy Lifestyle

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Eating right is all about balance. You can enjoy good food if it’s part of your healthy eating plan. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends making healthy food and drink choices that:

Include fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and low fat dairy.
Are low in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars.
Are based on the right amount of calories for you based on your age, sex, height, weight, and physical activity level.

According to the USDA, healthy eating helps older adults:

Obtain nutrients needed such as potassium, calcium, vitamins D and B12, minerals, and fiber.

Manage chronic diseases or reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, etc.

Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Meet individual calorie and nutrition needs and help to maintain energy levels.

It is also important to note that our daily eating habits change as our bodies get older.

Add flavor using spices and herbs instead of salt and look for low-sodium food.
Add sliced fruits and vegetables to your meals and snacks.
Ask your medical provider to suggest other options if the medications you take affect your appetite or change your desire to eat.
Drink 3 cups of fat-free or low-fat milk throughout the day.
If you cannot tolerate milk, try small amounts of yogurt, buttermilk, hard cheese, or lactose-free food.
Drink water instead of sugary drinks.
Consume foods fortified with vitamin B12, such as fortified cereals.

You may download a copy of this educational flyer by clicking here.

Sources:

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_HealthyEating
Updated September 23, 2025

For Providers | Incident Reporting: Staying Compliant with CMS

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As a CenterLight Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) provider, your commitment to participant safety and program integrity is essential. One of the most critical tools to ensure that we provide high quality care and meet participants' needs is incident reporting.

In order to ensure positive outcomes for those we serve, you must inform us immediately if you become aware of any change in condition or if there are any incidents that may threaten their health and safety.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requires CenterLight Healthcare and other PACE organizations to report incidents that include:

Suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
Medication related events such as adverse drug reactions or medication administration errors
Injuries or new wounds, including burns and pressure injuries
Elopements
Falls with or without injury

Incident reporting isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about protecting lives and improving care. If your protocol is to send a participant to the Emergency Room after a fall, or if there is another valid reason for sending them to the hospital for evaluation, please call CenterLight PACE so that we can be a part of the care coordination. Let’s keep our standards high and our reporting accurate and on time!

This blog post is written by Jocelyn Pappalardo, Director of Quality at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

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Updated September 10, 2025

Meet CenterLight PACE participant Lillian Ramos

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CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participant Lillian Ramos has been a CenterLight PACE participant for 17 years. In this video, she shares her experiences and highlights what she loves most about the CenterLight PACE program.

Lillian has been a CenterLight PACE participant for 17 years and is enrolled as a participant at the time of posting.

Approved video: H3329_CL LillianTestimonial Approved 08192025

Exercise at Your Own PACE

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At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), promoting independence, safety, and overall wellness is at the heart of what we do. One of the offerings that supports this mission is our Open Gym—a space located at each of CenterLight’s 11 PACE centers and is designed specifically for our participants to exercise, rebuild strength, and move at their own pace.

What makes this program truly special? In addition to the Physical Therapy (PT) and Occupational Thereapy (OT) services they receive as part of their care plan, participants can also use the Open Gym whenever it works best for them.* Whether they prefer working out before or after lunch, the gym is open throughout the day* to accommodate their schedule.

What is the Open Gym?

The Open Gym is an in-house fitness and rehabilitation space within the CenterLight PACE centers. It provides access to a range of advanced equipment like:

NuStep
SciFit
Jintronix (Making Rehab More Fun and Effective with Jintronix )
Hand weights and resistance tools

Participants can use the gym independently on their own time or as part of their personalized care plan, always under the guidance of licensed physical and occupational therapists. The focus is on:

Building strength and endurance
Improving flexibility and mobility
Enhancing transfer skills and balance.

Group Therapy: Healing Together

In addition to PT and OT services, CenterLight PACE supports independent exercises at the open gym. The CenterLight Rehabilitation Team also offers therapist-led group sessions that participants are welcome to attend. These sessions promote:

Mobility
Emotional health
Social engagement.

Participants can choose between joining a group or working out solo in the gym - whatever works best for them.

For CenterLight Participants: Come When You’re Ready

The Open Gym at CenterLight PACE gives you the space, equipment, and support to work out how you want when you want. No waiting, no rigid schedules, just freedom to move on your own terms in a safe, welcoming environment. Please speak to your care team for more information.

*During the PACE center’s operating hours.

This blog post is written by Brian Sidiski, Vice President of Care Delivery Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

H3329 Blog_OpenGym Approved 07242025
Updated June 24, 2025

Meet CenterLight PACE participant Betty Murray

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CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participant Betty Murray has been a CenterLight PACE participant for 15 years. In this video, she shares how it's like having a team on her side and speaks about her favorite activity at the CenterLight PACE Center.

Betty has been a CenterLight PACE participant for 15 years and is enrolled as a participant at the time of posting.

Approved video: H3329_CL BettyMurrayTestimonial Approved 07102025

For Providers: Strengthening Care Through Collaboration

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At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), we believe that high-quality, participant-centered care is only possible through collaboration with our provider network. Our providers play a vital role in ensuring that care is not only compassionate and effective but also compliant with regulatory standards.

As part of our ongoing commitment to excellence in care coordination, regulatory compliance, and health outcomes, we rely on our provider network to submit timely, complete, and accurate medical records. Your diligence in documentation directly supports the delivery of safe, effective, and coordinated care—and it gets results.

Shared Success: Measurable Impact

Thanks to your continued efforts, CenterLight PACE achieved:

An 8% reduction in emergency room visits per 1,000 participants

A 5% reduction in hospital readmissions

These improvements, recorded from Q1 to Q2 of 2025,* reflect the power of strong provider collaboration and thorough medical documentation. They also ensure we meet key standards set by federal and state agencies, including Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH).

What to Include in Every Medical Record Submission

As the participant's consulting physician or primary care provider, you play an integral role as a member of their care team. One of our regulatory requirements as a PACE program is to have the CenterLight care team review and update the individualized plan of care minimally on a 6-month basis.

To support this goal, visit notes must be submitted to CenterLight PACE to ensure that our participants' visits to your office become part of their medical record.

Please ensure that each medical record submission includes the following components, when applicable:

Plan of Care
Nursing and physician progress notes detailing the participant’s response to treatment
Specialist evaluations and recommendations
Laboratory, radiological, and other test reports
Medication records, including medication administration records
Physician orders
Reports of contact with informal support (e.g., caregiver, legal guardian, or next of kin)
Hospital discharge summaries
Discharge summary and disenrollment justification
Advance directives

Documentation Guidelines

Submit medical record documentation monthly
Submit documentation after both scheduled and unscheduled assessments
Ensure all records are legible, clearly dated, and signed by the responsible clinician
Send records to: visitdocumentation@centerlight.org

CenterLight’s staff is HIPAA-trained and committed to upholding strict data privacy and security standards.

Thank you for you for helping us provide high-quality care to those we serve!

Your commitment to thorough documentation and timely communication helps us deliver exceptional care to our participants. Together, we are building a stronger, more responsive care network—one record at a time.

This blog post is written by Jocelyn Pappalardo, Director of Quality at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

*CenterLight PACE participant data collected by the organization's Quality Department.

H3329 Blog_ForProviders_VisitNotes
Updated July 15, 2025

Don’t Fall This Summer: Stay Steady on Your Feet

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Summer is a time to enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and outdoor fun—but for older adults, it’s also a time to be extra cautious. High temperatures and seasonal conditions can pose health risks, especially when it comes to heat-related illness and falls. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help you stay safe all season long.

Summer activities often mean more walking, time outdoors, and exposure to wet or uneven surfaces—all of which can increase your risk of falling.

Here are a few tips to help you stay on your feet:

Avoid overheating.

Dehydration and overheating can cause dizziness and confusion, leading to falls. Stay cool and well-hydrated, and plan outdoor activities during cooler hours.

Be mindful of weather hazards.

In addition to heat waves, July can see the most rain during the summer.* Rain can create slippery sidewalks and muddy paths. Thunderstorms can scatter branches and debris that become tripping hazards. Stay indoors during bad weather and keep walkways clear.

Stay alert outside.

Watch uneven ground, curbs, holes, and changes in incline. Take your time and use a walking aid if needed.

Watch indoor slip hazards.

Pools, rain, and summer foot traffic can lead to wet floors at home, in stores, or restaurants. Wipe up spills quickly and walk carefully, especially on tile or hard wood floors.

Wear the right shoes.

Avoid flip-flops or slippery-soled sandals. Choose supportive, rubber-soled shoes that provide good traction and help prevent slips.

Rest when needed.

If you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or unusually tired, sit or lie down in a cool area and rest.

Enjoy the Season—Safely

With a few mindful choices, older adults can stay safe, healthy, and active throughout the summer. Protect yourself from heat, stay hydrated, and be aware of your surroundings to reduce your risk of falling or illness.

Remember: A safe summer is a fun summer!

This blog post is written by Tatyana Brisman, PT, Regional Rehabilitation Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Sources:

*NY Weather: Following June heat wave, here's what to expect in July

Hot Weather Safety for Older Adults

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_SummerFallTips
Updated July 2, 2025

Foot Care for People with Diabetes

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Did you know that individuals with Diabetes are more prone to having foot problems?

But don't worry, there are a few things you can do to help keep your feet healthy and avoid complications.

Check your feet daily.

Look for calluses, cuts, sores, blisters, red spots and swelling. A good time to check your feet is when you put on or take off your shoes and socks.
Use a mirror to check the bottoms of your feet if you have trouble seeing them. You can also ask a family member to help you.
Contact your health care provider if you see a problem.

Maintain foot hygiene.

Wash your feet with warm water (not hot) daily, but avoid soaking them. Dry your feet well after washing, including between your toes.
Rub a thin coat of lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet. Do not put lotion between your toes to avoid infection.

Protect your feet.

Do not walk barefoot. It is easy to step on something and hurt your feet.
Wear shoes that fit well. Check inside your shoes before you put them on to make sure the lining is smooth and there are no objects in them.
Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet.
Do not use over-the-counter products for corns and calluses. They may harm your skin.Wash your feet with warm water (not hot) daily, but avoid soaking them. Dry your feet well after washing, including between your toes.
Rub a thin coat of lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet. Do not put lotion between your toes to avoid infection.

Be mindful of your diabetes.

Keep your blood sugar within your target levels.
Follow your primary care provider’s direction on diabetes treatment.

Follow your doctor's and care team's advice.

Ask your primary care provider to check your feet at every visit.
See a podiatrist (a doctor who treats feet) at least once a year.
Let your care team know right away if you see or feel any issues with your feet.

For CenterLight PACE Participants

CenterLight's podiatrist will be at our PACE centers on scheduled days and is looking forward to meeting our participants. To find out the schedule for your site or to make an appointment, please call 1-833-252-2737 (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM Monday-Friday.

This blog post is written by Ziad Farah, MD, MBA, Chief Medical Officer at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_FootCare
Updated June 17, 2025

Tips and Tricks for Healthy Vision

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As we get older, our eyesight tends to change. Maybe you’ve started needing more light to read, or it is harder to recognize faces from a distance. What is important is knowing how to care for your eyes and catch any serious issues before they affect your daily life.

This is a friendly reminder to pause and think about your eye health. After all, our eyes help us enjoy the people we love, read our favorite book, and move around safely.

Aging and Eyesight: What to Expect

You might notice that your vision isn’t quite as sharp as it used to be. Many older adults may experience changes like:

Trouble seeing up close (especially with reading)
More sensitivity to glare
Needing more time to adjust to light changes
Cloudy vision (possibly from cataracts)

These changes are common, but sometimes vision problems can sneak up on us without warning. That’s why regular checkups with an eye doctor are so important.

Eye Conditions to Watch For

Some eye conditions become more common as we age. These include:

Cataracts - cloudy areas in the eyes lens that can make things look blurry or faded
Glaucoma - damage to the nerve in the back of the eye, which often starts with no symptoms
Macular degeneration - affects the part of your vision you use to see straight ahead
Diabetic eye disease - happens when high blood sugar affects blood vessels in the eyes

Catching these problems early can make a big difference. Most eye doctors recommend getting a full eye exam with dilating drops at least once a year.

Simple Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy

Take breaks from screens. Try not to stare at screens such as television, computers, and cellphones 24/7, make sure you are looking up every 20 minutes to relax your eyes for a bit.
Eat more greens and fish. Foods like spinach, kale, and salmon can support your eye health.
Protect your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses and a hat when you go outside.
Keep chronic conditions under control. Managing diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol helps your eyes as well.
Avoid smoking. Smoking raises your risk of vision loss later in life.
Use good lighting at home. It helps you see better and lowers your chance of falling.

When to Call Your Eye Doctor

If you notice sudden changes —for example, flashes of light, little specks in your vision, or pain in your eyes —don’t wait. Call your doctor right away. CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participants may also speak with their care team.

This blog post is written by Patricia Connelly, RN, Chief Operations Officer at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Sources:

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_HealthyVision
Updated June 16, 2025

Summer Safety: Stay Cool and Stay Hydrated

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people aged 65 years or older are more prone to heat-related health problems.¹With summer approaching, temperature changes, chronic conditions, and prescription medications increase risks for older adults.

Consult your medical provider about how the heat may affect your health conditions or medications.

How to Stay Cool

Stay inside air-conditioned buildings whenever you can. If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, New York city has available cooling centers. Our PACE centers are open to CenterLight participants during operating hours. If you're a CenterLight participant and would like to attend our PACE center, call us to schedule transportation at 1-833-CL-CARES (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM, Monday-Friday.

Pace yourself when doing activities, including exercise.

Some medications may affect the body's ability to cool itself or may have harmful risks during extreme heat. For example, some blood pressure and heart medications can increase the risk of fainting and falling or inhibit the feeling of thirst, while others can interfere with temperature regulation.² Speak with your medical provider regarding the medications you're taking and ask them how you can minimize harmful risks.

Take cool showers or baths to help your body cool off. Remember to be careful and ask your caregiver for assistance with these tasks.

Wear loose, light-colored clothes that are comfortable and cool.

Caregivers: What You Can Do to Beat the Heat

Stay informed: Check the local news for health and safety updates.

Hydration is key.

Time outdoor activities wisely.

This blog post is written by Heather Ogando, MD, Vice President of Clinical Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Sources:

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_SummerSafety
Updated June 25, 2025

Happiness is Contagious

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CenterLight PACE participant Feroz enrolled in 2023. In this video, he shares that he waits the whole week to come to CenterLight's South Asian Cultural Alternative Care Setting.

Feroz enrolled at CenterLight Healthcare PACE in 2023 and is a participant at the time of posting.

Approved video: H3329 CL_FerozAhmedTestimonial Approved 05272025

Every Day is a Chance for Adventure

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It was a beautiful morning, and CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Seneca Day Health Center participants were excited for their trip to the aquarium. It was an opportunity to observe stunning marine creatures in the museum’s breathtaking exhibits.

Meanwhile, participants from our Flushing PACE site are still talking about their day at the Botanical Garden—where they enjoyed perfect weather, fresh air, and colorful scenery. Seneca participants, on the other hand, are looking forward to the next time they reconnect with their inner child and bond with their Flushing peers at Dave and Buster’s; and our Bronx participants are excited for the next time they go on a trip to City Island.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants took a fun trip to the aquarium.

CenterLight Flushing participants at the Queens Botanical Garden.

Fun, games, and friendship at Dave and Buster's.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants enjoyed their City Island trip.

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These are just examples of trips CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants enjoy. In addition to more than 100 activities on site each month, we also take them on field trips throughout the year. Whether at the PACE center learning new things, or at fun and educational locations chosen based on their interests, every day is a chance for adventure!

Why are field trips part of CenterLight PACE’s Therapeutic Recreation programming?

Field trips provide a variety of benefits for older adults, including:

Opportunities for socialization. When older adults interact and share new experiences with their peers, their risk for social isolation is reduced. Field trips provide opportunities to interact with others, helping improve their wellbeing. In addition, having something to look forward to, like going to a museum with friends, helps promote mental and emotional wellness.

New experiences and participating in activities one enjoys can stimulate cognitive function. Whether going to a place they have never been before, learning new things, or discussing new ideas, field trips are a fun way to keep one’s mind sharp.

Most field trips can encourage physical activity. For example, walking around a museum of their choice or playing a game provide opportunities for exercise and help with mobility. Taking a stroll at the Botanical Garden, for example, not only encourages movement—it is also a chance to enjoy fresh air.

Diverse Interests, New Possibilities

The CenterLight PACE Therapeutic Recreation (TR) team understands that each participant is unique. TR specialists design activities that consider the diverse cultural backgrounds and varied preferences of those we serve. Field trips aim to bring participants together, offer a chance for adventure, provide shared experiences that they will enjoy, and even introduce them to something new, opening them up to interests they didn’t have before.

Visit our Facebook page to view photos from trips and other events/programs for our participants.

This blog post is written by Kathleen Keegan, Director of Therapeutic Recreation Services at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

H3329 FieldTripBlog Approved 05272025
Updated 04162025

35 Years of Sharing Special Moments with CenterLight

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Arianna Corretjer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, is celebrating her 35th year at CenterLight in 2025. Arianna considers participants part of her family. In her own words:

H3329 AriannaVideo_NoPOInfo
Last Updated June 5, 2025

Ana Rosa: You feel like you’re a queen

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Ana Rosa enrolled at CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in 2012 after she was discharged from rehabilitation. View the video below to hear her experience at CenterLight PACE in her own words.

Ana Rosa enrolled at CenterLight Healthcare PACE in 2012 and is a participant at the time of posting.

Approved video: H3329 AnaRosaGarciaTestimonial Approved 05272025

Alzheimer’s Disease and Fall Risk: What You Need to Know

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According to the National Library of Medicine, people with Alzheimer’s Disease are twice as likely to fall than those without it.¹ Falls can reduce independence, impact quality of life, and in some cases, cause serious injuries. It is important to learn about risks and what we can do to help minimize them.

Why are Falls More Common in Individuals with Alzheimer’s?

Cognitive Decline: People with Alzheimer's Disease suffer from memory loss and poor judgement, which make it harder to avoid hazards.

Balance and Muscle Weakness: Changes in gait and balance are a common symptom of Alzheimer’s, particularly as the disease progresses. These deficits can contribute to difficulty walking and balancing, which can ultimately lead to falls.² In addition, Alzheimer's Disease affects coordination and physical strength.

Vision Issues: Trouble judging depth and distance leads to missteps.

Medication Side Effects: Some drugs prescribed for Alzheimer's Disease may cause dizziness or drowsiness.

Early Risk: Falls can occur even before symptoms of Alzheimer’s are obvious or before Alzheimer's Disease is diagnosed.

What are the Consequences?

Injuries: Fractures, head trauma, and loss of mobility.

Fear of Falling: Leads to inactivity, isolation, and further decline.

Stress for Caregivers: Increased responsibilities and emotional strain.

Long-Term Impact: Hospital stays or permanent care placement.

How to Help Prevent Falls

Recognizing the connection between cognitive decline and physical vulnerability is the first step in preventing injuries and maintaining independence.

Remember to see your medical provider regularly. They can help recognize early signs and help determine if an individual has Alzheimer's Disease and increased risk of falls.

If an individual is diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, caregivers, medical professionals, and family members can work together to:

Improve home safety

Monitor medication side effects

Encourage safe mobility practices

Engage in physical therapy and balance exercises

By staying informed and proactive, we can help reduce the risk of falls and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease.

This blog post is written by Tatyana Brisman, PT, Regional Rehabilitation Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Sources:

¹ Falls and Alzheimer's Disease, National Library of Medicine

² The Correlation Between Alzheimer's and Frequent Falls, Altoida

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_AlzheimersAndFalls
Updated May 7, 2025

Being a Physical Therapist is more than just a job—it’s a calling.

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Tatyana Brisman, PT, is celebrating her 20th year of working at CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in 2025. We spoke with Tatyana to learn more about her journey as a physical therapy and rehabilitation professional.

How did you get started at CenterLight?

I began my journey with CenterLight Healthcare PACE in July 2005 as a Senior Physical Therapist. Just one year into my role, I was honored to be promoted to Rehabilitation Manager—a position that allowed me to grow both professionally and personally.

How do you view your role at CenterLight?

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.

What is the best thing about being in the healthcare/ rehabilitation field?

Working in healthcare and rehabilitation is incredibly rewarding. The greatest joy comes from helping participants reach their maximum level of function and seeing their quality of life improve. Whether it’s helping someone walk again after orthopedic surgery, supporting stroke recovery, or reducing pain and restoring mobility—every success story is a powerful reminder of why I chose this career.

Some of the most meaningful moments come from simple yet impactful interventions, like conducting a Home Safety Evaluation that helps someone remain safely in their home. Seeing a participant regain independence, walk more confidently, or even cry tears of joy after recovery—those are the moments that make this work truly worthwhile.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to have a long career?

My advice to anyone in this field: always put participants first. Be compassionate, be a team player, and strive to create a family-like environment. Embrace change, be willing to learn, and grow with the fast-paced nature of healthcare.

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.

Tatyana Brisman, Physical Therapist and Regional Rehabilitation Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

H3329 Tatyana NoPOInfo
Updated 05162025

What You Need to Know About Living with Arthritis

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Do you have Arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term for conditions that affect the joints, tissues around joints, and other connective tissues. This is an inflammation that usually comes with the feeling of pain, stiffness and swelling.

There are many types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, for example, is the most common form among older adults, according to the National Institute on Aging.

Do you have Arthritis?

Symptoms vary by arthritis type but usually include joint pain and stiffness. Pain is the way your body tells you that something is wrong. You might have trouble moving around. You need to see your medical provider to find out if you're experiencing arthritis pain or something else.

What can you do to manage Arthritis?

See your medical provider regularly.

Although there are many Over-The-Counter (OTC) medications that people use to relieve pain they think is caused by Arthritis, it is important to consult a medical professional to ensure proper diagnosis. Only a medical provider can tell if you have Arthritis or a related condition and how to treat it.

Manage your weight.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), keeping a healthy weight can help slow arthritis symptoms from getting worse so you can keep doing the activities you enjoy. Your dietitian can help develop a meal plan that's right for you.

Be physically active.

Exercising, going for a walk, and moving all of your joints can help you manage your arthritis. The CDC states that according to research, physical activity reduces pain, improves physical function, and delays physical limitations. Speak with your physical or occupational therapist to discuss an exercise plan that will work for you.

Take your medicines when and how you are supposed to.

Your medical provider will let you know if medications can help you. Before you leave the doctor’s office, make sure you ask about the best way to take the medicine they prescribed. For example, you may need to take some medicines with milk, or you may need to eat something just before or after taking them, to make sure they don’t upset your stomach.

Tell your medical provider if you are taking OTC medications, using pain relieving creams, or any herbal or homeopathic treatments. They will review them to make sure that there are no interactions with your other medications.

This blog post is written by Heather Ogando, MD, Vice President of Clinical Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Sources:

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Arthritis
Updated April 29, 2025