Blog - CenterLight

The Importance of Connection

We all need social connections to survive and thrive--but as we age, we may find ourselves spending more time alone.

Did you know that social isolation can affect our health and wellbeing?

Studies show that not having social interactions with others can lead to higher risks in health problems such as heart disease, depression, and memory issues.* According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), social isolation is associated with about 50% increase risk of dementia. Poor social relationships (characterized by social isolation or loneliness) are associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke.**

This is because people who are isolated may get too little physical exercise, experience emotional pain that can increase stress and lead to unhealthy habits, and have limited conversations and activities, consequently weakening brain health.

How can you avoid the negative effects of social isolation? Here are some ideas to help you stay connected:

Find an activity that you enjoy, restart an old hobby, or take a class to learn something new.

Participating in activities can help individuals make new friends and strengthen existing relationships. In addition, learning a new hobby or discovering new talents can help with cognitive and physical health, as well as boost confidence and increase motivation for engagement.

For example, CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants have access to PACE centers, where they can join more than 100 activities at each site per month. These include arts and crafts, bingo, field trips, special programs such as pet therapy, and music programs, as well as special events, holidays, and cultural celebrations.

Schedule time each day to get in touch with family, friends, and/or neighbors in person, by email, social media, phone, or text.*

Talk with people you trust and share your feelings. Sending letters or cards—although not common nowadays—is another good way to keep up friendships.

CenterLight PACE participant Sheila talks about how finding her passion for art helped in her healthcare journey.

Stay physically active.

Consult your medical provider to learn what physical activities you can do at home or in the community, such as walking with a friend. CenterLight PACE participants may go to our PACE centers to use our open gym or join exercise programs at our day health center.

Join a support group.

Speak with people with whom you share common interests and/or who have experienced the same situations. Sharing your thoughts and supporting others can lead to important connections that may not necessarily be provided by family and friends.

Speak with your social worker.

A social work professional can recommend community resources and other ways to improve your emotional and mental health. CenterLight PACE participants have an assigned social worker as part of their care team.

Speak with your doctor or medical provider.

For some individuals, depression may be the cause of social isolation or the result of it. Medical professionals can diagnose conditions and recommend treatments if needed.

Lastly, remember to ask for help and reach out to others. We may not be aware that we are starting to be more isolated, but accepting assistance and knowing that there are resources available is a great way to minimize the risks associated with social isolation.

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.

This blog post is written by:

Kathleen Keegan, Director of Therapeutic Recreation at CenterLight Healthcare PACE

Kimberly Sodano, LCSW, Director of Social Work at CenterLight Healthcare PACE

Sources:

* National Institutes of Health

** https://aging.ny.gov/news/social-isolation-resources-help#:~:text=Virtually%20any%20movie%20or%20classic,emotional%20support%20for%20you%20both!

H3329 SocialIsolationBlog Approved 01232025
Updated December 17, 2024

Dietary Services at CenterLight Healthcare PACE

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Each day, CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participants receive care and services from a team of professionals called the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT). We spoke to Phyllis Russell, Registered Dietitian at CenterLight PACE, about the role of Dietitians in the IDT.

What is the role of a dietitian within the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT)?

CenterLight PACE Dietitians work with our participants, their caregivers and other members of the IDT to create an individualized meal plan according to the participants’ health conditions and food preferences.

As one of the registered dietitians at CenterLight, I do home visits where I can help participants manage their diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol or their weight by ensuring they have the education they need to stay with a healthy diet.

I also teach exciting classes once a month. We talk about the importance of nutrition, we make smoothies, we talk about what’s new in the news that affect their health.

How does the dietitian work with the rest of the IDT?

The dietitian works very closely with all the members of the team. For example, when I do meal observations, I can see if participants need any type of help with feeding and if so I can go to the occupational therapist who can then order adaptive equipment.

I also work with the social workers. When I make my home visits, if I ever notice that participants have issues perhaps with finances, or they don’t have food or anything that may come up, I can go to the social workers who can then help them apply for food stamps or find another solution.

Also I work with the nurses and doctors dealing with participants’ clinical status in managing their diabetes and their hypertension.

The team always comes together so we can discuss everything that’s going on with our participants.

Can you tell us about meal observation?

I do meal observation at our center once a week. This is when I come during lunch time and take note of how participants are eating, what they’re eating, what they’re not eating, and if someone has difficulty with chewing and swallowing. Through this program I can also see if they’re having difficulty feeding themselves. And sometimes I do actually sit down and help feed the participants.

Beyond your role in helping participants get proper nutrition, what is your goal as a dietitian?

If I notice they don’t like something, for example, I can go back to our vendor and report back if they didn’t perhaps like the chicken that day or they don’t like the way it was cooked, they don’t like the flavor. Always, everything is about our participants and making sure they’re happy and they like what they’re receiving.

What is the advantage of having a dietitian as part of the team?

Through the IDT, our participants have access to every single discipline that they need to help them stay well in the community.

Not many people have access to a dietitian. Maybe you can go to the clinic, you can see a doctor, you can run into a nurse, but where’s the dietitian? But here at CenterLight, since we have this Interdisciplinary approach, I’m part of the team.

What inspires you about your work?

My work is mostly inspired by helping the population that we have here enjoy their years right now. I am motivated by just interacting with our participants, seeing them enjoy the food, talking with them. Our participants are so much fun. I learn a lot from them as much as I try to educate them.

Phyllis Russell, MSN, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

This blog post was originally published in 2020, and republished in 2025.
H3329_2020BLOG_Dietitian Approved 03112020
Last updated March 5, 2020

Stillwell Choir: It’s all about the music!

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CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is home to many talented participants, and the choir at our Stillwell location in Brooklyn is no exception. The Stillwell Choir began as a musical ensemble featuring instruments like the accordion, banjo and erhu, a two-stringed Chinese instrument that is played with a bow. Accompanied by CenterLight PACE's Therapeutic Recreation Specialist on piano, participants regularly come together to perform a diverse range of music, including traditional Chinese folk songs, opera, and Russian tunes. This vibrant mix of cultures is a testament to the unity fostered at CenterLight.

The CenterLight Stillwell Choir is always eager to explore new music and welcomes new performers to join their ranks. Tanglai Kwai Ping, who chose to attend the Stillwell PACE site to be part of the choir, learned Chinese opera decades ago in Hong Kong. At CenterLight PACE, she continues to enjoy singing while also expanding her social circle within the choir.

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Albert Laiquong began playing the banjo at the age of 12, learning from his brother. It was not until he joined the CenterLight PACE Stillwell center that he had the opportunity to perform alongside other musicians.

Loh Sui Zhu, who has always loved music and enjoyed singing at home, discovered her passion for Chinese opera at CenterLight PACE. She also honed her accordion skills, which she first picked up from her daughter.

Siu Shui Tong found her voice after joining Stillwell, where she cherishes the socialization and camaraderie she shares with the group.

The CenterLight Stillwell Choir is a true source of pride for both its participants and the staff at the Stillwell PACE Center, and an example of participants pursuing and enjoying their passions. The choir recently showcased their talent at a multi-location holiday event and eagerly anticipate more opportunities to perform in the future.

H3329 StillwellChoir Approved 02202025
Updated January 6, 2025

Cancer Screening Saves Lives

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According to the National Cancer Institute, prevention and screening efforts have been major contributors to saving lives from breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer.* This National Cancer Prevention Month, we would like to remind you about the importance of preventative care.

Screening means checking your body for cancer before you have symptoms. Getting screening tests regularly may find breast, cervical, colorectal (colon), and lung cancers early, when treatment is likely to work best.** It is also important to note that individuals who have an increased risk, such as people with a family history of cancer, must start screenings early.

The following are some preventative screenings recommended for older adults:

Breast Cancer Screening (mammograms)
Cervical Cancer Screenings (Pap Test and HPV Test)
Prostate Cancer Screening
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Lung Cancer Screening (especially for people who have a history of heavy smoking and are between 50 and 80 years of age)
Other cancer screenings including, but not limited to, ovarian, pancreatic, and thyroid, as well as screenings recommended by your medical provider based on your health, history, and risk factors.

We also recommend the following:

See your doctor or medical provider regularly. Regular check-ups help medical professionals identify issues before they get worse and provide appropriate treatment as needed.

If you experience symptoms or any change in condition, let your medical provider know as soon as possible. You do not have to wait until your next appointment or assessment. CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participants can also speak with any member of their care team at any time if there’s any change in how they feel.

Live a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol and tobacco consumption can help decrease your risk of sickness. CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants can stay active by joining in on therapeutic recreation activities at the PACE centers or using our open gym. CenterLight dietitians can recommend a proper diet and educate participants and their caregivers on healthy meals. Consult with your medical provider to determine what exercise and/or diet works best for you.

Remember: preventative care works. The earlier cancer is detected, the higher the likelihood of effective treatments prolonging one's life.

Sources:

*From 1975-2020, https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/press-releases/2024/cancer-deaths-averted-prevention-screening-contribution

** https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prevention/screening.html

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_CancerScreenings
Updated December 19, 2024

Yeping’s Story: Life is truly good here.

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Yeping enrolled at CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly's (PACE) Flushing Center in 2013.

When asked what she loves about CenterLight PACE, Yeping points to the many activities provided at the PACE Center, and to the staff members who treat her and her peers like family. She also shares that since joining the program, she has learned English through one of the classes led by CenterLight PACE Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Jin Hwa.

CenterLight is like a big family. Everyone is very happy, it is really like that. Life is truly good here.

Watch the video below to hear from Yeping in her own words:

Yeping has been a CenterLight PACE participant since 2013 and is enrolled as a participant at the time of posting.

H3329 YepingBlog2024 Approved 01022025
Last Updated January 2, 2025

A Team Approach to Complete Care

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CenterLight Healthcare is New York's largest Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Each day, we deliver care and services to thousands of adults 55+ through the combined expertise of our Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), a group of dedicated professionals who work together to provide our participants with the care they need, when they need it. The IDT includes but is not limited to a nurse, doctor, physical therapist, an occupational therapist, social worker, therapeutic recreation specialist, a dietitian, transportation coordinator, and a PACE center manager. Each participant has a full team dedicated to them, who collaborate to discuss their needs, effective treatment, plan of care, and any other aspects in their lives that affect their well-being.

Like Pieces of a Puzzle Coming Together

Healthcare is often confusing and overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. At CenterLight PACE, we bring together all services our participants need in their healthcare journey. We coordinate necessary services, so that participants and their loved ones don't have to. Each discipline has a specific role—with every person bringing a different perspective—allowing us to provide holistic, person-centered, and personalized care to our participants and helping them continue to live safely and independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

Because CenterLight PACE medical providers are on-site, they’re able to keep a close eye on participants' health and focus on preventative care. If issues come up, they are always there to see the participants as needed. All PACE centers have a Nurse who can treat the participant if they are not feeling well or if the team sees a change in condition. This helps prevent hospital and urgent care visits. Our centers are equipped to handle minor conditions such as fever, minor headaches, body aches and pains, symptoms of upper respiratory infections, and more. Our medical staff is able to administer specialized treatments and interventions including wound care and IV Therapy. Our team also assists with medication management, hypertension, diabetes management, preventative screenings, and helps participants obtain needed medical equipment, which are also provided by CenterLight PACE.

As part of home care services, a Community Health Nurse visits participants in their home to assess their needs and make sure they receive necessary care.

Beyond medical care, each participant is assigned a Social Worker who provides emotional support, counseling, referrals, and when possible, encourages family involvement.

Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Specialists design activities with our participants’ needs in mind. They coordinate services such as art therapy, music therapy, dance and movement therapy, and pet therapy. There are over 100 activities at each center per month, taking into consideration cultural diversity and the unique preferences of our participants.

Physical Therapists focus on participants' ability to walk, climb up and down stairs, and their ability to go outside in the community. Occupational Therapists, on the other hand, look at Activities of Daily Living (ADL) such as dressing, bathing, and grooming. These rehabilitation professionals also supervise our open gym, which is available to all participants at our PACE centers.

Our Registered Dietitians’ role is to provide nutrition interventions based on each participant’s care plan. This includes helping them manage their diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and weight. They are located in our centers, can answer any questions participants may have and provide nutrition counseling.

Led by the PACE Center Manager, the team meets regularly, develops a plan of care, and works with the participant's community primary care doctor and in-network specialist. A Coordinator schedules transportation to and from medical appointments, as well as the PACE Center.

Imagine all your clinicians, therapists, and care professionals under one roof – listening to you, working together, and communicating as one team. This model of care results in efficient delivery of services, effective preventative care, and high quality care with the participant at the center of everything we do.

To learn more, contact us at 1-833-CL-CARES (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM, Monday-Friday.

H3329 CareTeamBlog Approved 01022025
Updated November 27, 2024

This blog post is written by Tara Buonocore-Rut, President and Chief Executive Officer at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Tips for Eye Health

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Did you know that you could have a vision problem and not be aware of it? The best way to take care of your vision is to have preventative vision checks. Make sure you visit your eye care provider regularly to prevent any condition from getting worse, and to help treat issues you may already have.

January is National Eye Care Month. Below are some additional tips that can help promote eye health:

Maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

Diabetes can increase your risk of some eye diseases including, in severe cases, vision loss and blindness. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, make sure that you check your blood sugar level regularly, take medications as prescribed, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to help prevent complications. Speak with your medical provider to learn ways to minimize eye issues.

Monitor your blood pressure.

Having a controlled blood pressure is important for reducing your risk of developing vision problems. Speak with your medical provider regarding your risk factors and if you are having symptoms of high blood pressure, which can include blurred vision, headache, dizziness, etc. Some of the ways you can manage your blood pressure include maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy weight, keeping active, and avoiding alcohol and smoking.

Eat right.

Follow a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Kale, spinach, and collard greens, for example, are rich in both vitamins C and E. There are also plant-based forms of vitamin A that help lower your risk of long-term eye diseases such as cataracts and Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), which affects a person's central vision.

Rest your eyes.

Try to limit television, computer, or phone screen time and take a break every 20 minutes. Spending too much time staring at a screen can cause eye strain.

Clean your hands before touching your eyes.

To avoid the risk of infection, always wash your hands thoroughly before putting in or taking out your contact lenses. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with your hands—use a clean tissue instead.

Wear sunglasses.

Protect your eyes from the sun by wearing UV-A and UV-B radiation-protected lenses. The rays from the sun can be very harmful to unprotected eyes.

This blog post is written by Myrlhene Descollines, MPA, RN, BSN, Vice President of Clinical Services at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | www.cdc.gov

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_EyeHealth
Updated December 12, 2024

40 Years of Caring for the New York Community

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This year (2025), CenterLight Healthcare is celebrating 40 years of providing managed care—a perfect time to look back at our rich history of caring for the New York Community.

A New Kind of Healthcare

In 1973, the healthcare industry saw a shift in the way care is provided. With an increasing number of aging immigrants, diverse cultural traditions helped shape a new model of care. Immigrants from countries such as China, Indonesia, and the Philippines required an alternative to nursing homes and a way for those who needed long-term care to be able to remain in their homes with their families, while receiving the services they need. As a result, On Lok in California became the first to introduce a managed care program now known as the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).

As the need for solutions like PACE grew across the country, States started seeing an increase in the number of managed long-term care plans. CenterLight Healthcare, then known as Comprehensive Care Management (CCM), begun as a demonstration program and started providing case management and comprehensive services 4 decades ago – making it one of New York State’s oldest long-term managed care programs. In 1992, we enrolled our first participant, marking the beginning of what is to become the largest not-for-profit PACE program in the nation.

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Serving the Diverse New York Community

While our operations started in the Bronx, CCM started expanding its service area in 1996. PACE centers opened in Westchester, Chinatown, and Allerton in the Bronx. Our Stillwell Center opened its doors in 2005 to serve Russian and Asian participants, and our 99^th Street Manhattan location opened the year after, serving a diverse group of older adults, including English and Spanish-speaking individuals.

In 2009, three more PACE centers opened. Our Ridgewood location brought services to the Albanian community and others in Queens, and our Rockaway Parkway center started serving English and Haitian Creole speaking participants in Brooklyn. Working to find innovative solutions for communities with unique needs, we opened a PACE center in the Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Dominic in Amityville, Long Island, with the goal of providing care to the nuns aging in. This site was the first of its kind built to answer a need within a specific community.

The Birth of the CenterLight Brand

In 2012, our parent organization, which at the time included, among others, nursing homes, a Medicaid Managed Long-Term Care Program, a Medicare Special Needs Plan, and of course PACE, recognized growth opportunities and the importance of being known as one strong brand. This was the birth of CenterLight Healthcare.

Over the next few years, CenterLight PACE opened more locations across New York, including Bushwick in Brooklyn and Flushing, bringing our services to the Chinese and Korean communities in Queens.

DID YOU KNOW?
Our parent organization was originally founded in 1920 to serve the needs of the Jewish population in the Bronx. Paying homage to this heritage, the name “CenterLight” came from the center light in the menorah, which lights all the other candles. Decades later, the significance of “CenterLight” has evolved to putting our participants at the center of everything we do, and the fact that our participants are the lights of our PACE centers.

A Focus on All-Inclusive Care

In 2017, CenterLight evolved once again to meet the changing needs of older adults and demands of the healthcare industry, separating from the other entities within our parent organization’s umbrella and setting our more focused efforts on PACE, with a renewed mission of helping participants live safely and independently in their own homes.

2023 saw the birth of our new visual identity (see video), further strengthening our commitment to our mission and reflecting our values. In the same year, we opened our Jamaica South Asian Alternative Care Setting (ACS), with programs designed for South Asian participants, including prayer and wudu rooms, cultural programming, meditation rooms, and South Asian food.

Looking Ahead

Looking back at our history, the many changes our organization has been through, and the challenges we’ve faced and triumphed over, I feel proud to be part of a compassionate team whose dedication helping enrich the lives of those we serve remains steadfast. Decades have passed since our story begun, but we are all still working towards the same goal of making a difference and serving the underserved. Our track record in continuing to innovate and finding in-home solutions for our participants make me very enthusiastic about our future. With our unwavering focus on our participants’ unique needs, it is my hope that we can continue to expand our care to more individuals who need it most for more decades to come.

To the CenterLight team, thank you for sharing your heart and talents for a larger purpose. To our participants, we are grateful that you continue to trust us with your care.

As we celebrate our 40^th anniversary, look out for events across our 12 locations—including a participant art exhibit, a centenarian celebration, and other cultural and special celebrations.

H3329 40Years Approved 01232025
Updated December 24, 2024

This blog post is written by Tara Buonocore-Rut, President and Chief Executive Officer at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Bridging Worlds through Language at CenterLight’s Day Health Centers

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At CenterLight Healthcare PACE, our participants come from diverse cultures and speak different languages. Across our service area, our participants speak over 25+ different languages and dialects. More than half of them speak Chinese, Bengali, and Spanish. To ensure every participant feels supported, our staff members reflect the cultures of those we serve.

We have access to interpreters who can help facilitate effective communication. We also offer materials and resources in the primary languages most often spoken by our participants. Our Day Health Center (DHC) becomes a friendly, welcoming place where our participants' unique worlds collide. They get to socialize and connect with one another, making it the perfect place to learn a new language!

Learning a new language opens doors to social interaction and is also a way to keep the mind engaged, which helps maintain cognitive health in older adults.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Classes at the Day Health Center

At CenterLight PACE, ESL classes are offered at our Westchester, Rockaway, and Flushing PACE centers, as well as our Jamaica South Asian Cultural Alternative Care Setting.

Lessons are taught by an ESL teacher or a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (TRS). These classes meet up to four times a month and are open to any participant who wants to learn or strengthen their English. The lessons consist of first learning common phrases the participants regularly use at home, during social interactions, or any phrases they would use when coming to the site. Once these phrases are learned, the participants will play personalized and fun games/activities such as role-playing, multilingual Bingo, and Pictionary to review what they learned. The lessons also encompass language and phrases the participants may encounter during their medical visits.

Building Confidence

At CenterLight Healthcare PACE, our staff mirrors the cultural makeup of those we serve. We are able to communicate with participants in their own language. But we have seen that learning common phrases in English to use for medical care makes participants feel more comfortable communicating their needs to other providers, specialists, and medical professionals, such as when they have outside appointments. It also gives them the confidence to speak with individuals they may encounter in the community.

Making New Friends

TRS also notice that participants who have taken the language classes are more likely to come out of their comfort zone and interact with their peers and staff who may not speak their language. At the CenterLight PACE Westchester site, for example, our Chinese participants are learning Spanish while our Spanish participants are in turn learning Chinese and both Chinese and Spanish participants are learning English.

In addition to the social aspects, the development of language is another way for our participants to maintain cognitive health. It allows the participants to make new friends and avoid social isolation. Participants who wouldn't have met otherwise now get to learn about each other's cultures and embrace diversity. Even those whose primary language is English have grown an interest in learning a new language to communicate better with their non-English speaking friends. It's all about bringing participants together and making them feel excited to be part of a community. Besides, learning a new language here at CenterLight PACE is never too late!

Source:

National Institute on Aging (2024). Cognitive health and older adults | National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/brain-health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults

H3329 LanguagesBlog Approved 12192024
Updated November 19, 2024

Winter Safety and Falls Prevention

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A snowfall can turn New York into a winter wonderland. But for older adults, enjoying the beauty of winter also means keeping warm and taking precautions when out and about on icy streets. Below are some helpful tips on how you can minimize the risk of falls during the winter.

Stay Inside on Days When it is Icy or Snowing

If a storm is in the forecast, do not go out unless absolutely necessary. If it is unavoidable, do not go out alone. Find someone who can offer assistance and help you walk safely.

Additional Time

Allow more time to complete tasks or errands that you cannot postpone. This will also help you avoid having to take shortcuts that have not been cleaned.

Wear Proper Footwear

Well-fitted footwear such as non-slippery boots, sneakers, or shoes with sturdy soles and traction design are recommended for icy conditions.

Clear Pathways

Maintain snow/ice-free pathways around your home. If you are not able to do so by yourself, ask for help from a family member, friend, or neighbor to clear snow and use salt or sand.

Practice Proper Walking Techniques

Do not carry anything in your hands aside from assistive devices such as a cane/walker. Walk slowly and be aware of your surroundings, take small steps, and point your toes out slightly for stability.

Avoid Distractions

Do not text or talk on your phone while walking. Be aware of where you are walking and be mindful of ice and slippery spots.

Dress Appropriately

Wear winter-appropriate clothes such as pants, winter coat, a hat, and gloves that can help limit the impact of a fall and keep you warm.

Take Precautions Inside Your Home

Place non-slip mats near the entrance and make sure no surfaces remain wet and slippery. Make sure you have enough light to ensure you do not trip or fall.

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

Source: https://www.lifeline.com/blog/preventing-winter-falls-tips-for-safety/

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_WinterFallTips
Updated November 22, 2024

Holidays and Celebrations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE

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CenterLight Healthcare’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) offers activities and socialization for our participants 55 and over. Our Day Health Centers (DHCs) are always buzzing with activities. On any given day, you will hear music and laughter at our PACE sites across New York City, Westchester, and Long Island. Holidays and cultural celebrations our participants enjoy include:

Cinco de Mayo
Christmas
Diwali
Eid
Hannukah
Holi
Kwanza
Lunar New Year

Mid-Autumn Festival
Thanksgiving
Valentine’s Day
Hispanic Heritage Month
African American History Month
Asian American and Pacific Islander Month
Jewish Heritage Month

We always find reasons to celebrate, like National Donut Day, Pasta Day, and Pancake Day, or simply having an Elvis impersonator at a party just because!

As Diverse and Unique as our Participants

CenterLight PACE participants come from many cultural backgrounds. Our diverse staff, who speak 25+ languages and dialects, are proud to foster an environment where the heritage of those we serve is celebrated, and their unique needs and preferences are valued.

The Therapeutic Recreation team works hard to ensure that our participants have an enjoyable time at our DHCs. They plan months in advance to ensure that our daily activities and events are representative of our participants’ cultures, passions, and traditions.

Beyond Holidays

In addition to cultural and religious holidays, celebrations at CenterLight PACE also include special occasions.

We host monthly birthday parties and celebrate wedding anniversaries with our participants and their families. During the summer, we hold a special carnival complete with games and prizes, and even a dunk tank! In the fall, participants and staff from our different sites get competitive with a pumpkin decorating contest. Visit our sites during Halloween to see their spooky and fun costumes. One of my personal favorites is the “Senior” Prom where we crown a Prom King and Queen!

Bringing Everyone Together

Our celebrations are fun for our participants and staff, but more importantly, they bring everyone closer together. Commemorating holidays with special cultural and personal significancecan sometimes bring homesickness to participants whose family may be hundreds of miles away. Being able to celebrate these occasions with our staff and their peers makes CenterLight PACE a home away from home, where they can share their traditions with their CenterLight PACE family.

Looking Ahead, and a Personal Note…

We are excited to see what fun and meaningful events we will come up with in 2025. I hope you will check back soon to see photos and stories of our participants and what our DHC activities mean to them. Personally, seeing their smiles at and after every celebration is the most fulfilling part of my job, and I hope you can visit us and witness these yourself one of these days.

Visit our Life at CenterLight page for recent happenings at our PACE Centers. You may also visit our Facebook page to view more pictures from our Therapeutic Recreation events and activities.

This blog post is written by Kristy Bermudez, Recreation Services Assistant Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

H3329 HolidaysBlog Approved 10242024
Updated October 14, 2024

Flu Vaccine for Older Adults

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The flu, or influenza, is a virus that can cause fever, chills, sore throat, stuffy nose, headache, and muscle aches. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), flu is a mild illness for some people. However, for others, including older adults with chronic (long-lasting) health conditions, it can be very serious. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 50-70% of flu-related hospitalizations occur in people 65 and older.

Protect yourself from the flu

There are a number of steps you can take to protect yourself from the flu, as my colleague Dr. Heather Ogando discusses in her blog post.

One of the proven effective ways to minimize your chances of getting the flu is to get a flu vaccine. You are less likely to become seriously ill or hospitalized from flu and flu-related complications if you get the vaccine. A flu vaccine is especially important in older adults who have heart disease, diabetes, or other health conditions.

According to the CDC, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended that all 2024-2025 flu vaccines be trivalent, which means they protect against three different flu viruses. Below are two of the many types of flu vaccines available.

Fluad Trivalent

This vaccine is approved for use among people 65 and older. It is a standard-dose flu shot with an ingredient added to help stimulate the immune system.

Afluria Trivalent

A 0.5 mL dose of this vaccine is approved for people 3 years and older.

You can ideally get flu vaccines starting in October of each year. But it's not too late to get one from your doctor as the height of the flu season is usually in December or January. Participants of CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) who have not yet had their flu shot can contact their care team by calling 1-833-CL-CARES (1-833-252-2737) (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM, Monday-Friday.

CenterLight 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 doctor regarding their care. If you would like to learn more about CenterLight, please call: 1-833-252-2737 (TTY 711), 8AM - 8PM, Monday - Friday. Representatives or message service also available on weekends.

This blog post was written by Shu Jing, PharmD, MS, Senior Director of Pharmacy Services at CenterLight Healthcare.

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Institutes of Health
US will Transition to Trivalent Flu Vaccines for 2024-2025

H3329 FluShotBlog_no PO info Updated 11252024

Protect Yourself from the Flu

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It’s that time of year again! There are some simple steps you could take to help protect yourself and your loved ones during the flu season.

Get vaccinated.

Seasonal flu vaccines are available now. Ask your healthcare provider about getting a flu shot—vaccines are one of the best ways to lessen the possibility of getting sick.

Recognize signs and symptoms.

It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of the flu. This will help you get timely treatment as necessary, and prevent you from getting others sick. CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants who have any of the following symptoms should call their care team right away at 1-833-CL-CARES (1-833-252-2737), Monday-Friday, 8AM-8PM (TTY 711). A member of the team is always on call during after hours and weekends. All other individuals are advised to notify their healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Practice cough etiquette.

Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or use a tissue.

Wash hands well and frequently.

Use soap and water, or if not available, use a hand sanitizer. Make sure you practice proper handwashing techniques.

Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of the flu.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with flu can spread it to others up to about 6 feet away. Most experts think that flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk, then these droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you can, stay away from anyone who is sick or showing flu symptoms to minimize the chance of you getting sick too.

If you are sick, keep your distance from others. Stay home, rest, and follow instructions from your healthcare provider.

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

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | www.cdc.gov

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_FluPreventionTips
Updated November 7, 2024

10 Signs Your Loved One is Ready for Long-Term Care

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1. A Recent Hospitalization

After being discharged from the hospital, certain medical conditions - such as a recent stroke or broken bones from a fall - may lead to chronic health conditions that require readmission to the hospital, or 24-hour care.

2. A Greater Sense of Seclusion

If an elderly relative was once outgoing, but no longer wishes to be social or go out in public, this could be a sign of depression. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), depression affects 15-20% of older adults. Older adults are at risk of misdiagnosis and lack of treatment because symptoms can also be mistakenly attributed to other illnesses, medications, or life changes.

3. A Behavioral Personality Change

The changes that many older adults experience in the aging process can lead to a loss of self-esteem and they may lose a clear image of who they are at this time in their lives. An elderly relative who exhibits major changes in personality - such as a former extrovert who has become socially isolated, or an easygoing person who exhibits swearing, aggressive behavior, hitting, crying, or frustration - could need ongoing monitoring and treatment provided by elder care professionals.

4. A Struggle with Medications

For some older adults, medications can be the key to good or improved health. But if they skip a dose or mistakenly take too much, the results can be deadly. Medication problems are widespread. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, 55% of older adults are "non-compliant" with their prescription drug orders, meaning they don't take the medication according to the doctor's orders.

An elderly person who cannot remember the dosages and times to take medications, or confuses different prescriptions, may need the assistance of elder care professionals who can manage their prescriptions and dosages.

5. A Recent Fall

Perhaps more than other symptoms, a recent fall may indicate that an elderly person's functional ability is becoming compromised, and much more dependent rather than independent. More than one-third of older adults with minor head trauma caused by a fall will need to return to the emergency room within 90 days after discharge, claims a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society. According to date from the CDC, roughly 2.5 million older adults are sent to emergency departments nationwide due to injuries sustained from falls.

6. An Eating Issue or a Change in Weight

Elder care professionals can determine whether an elderly person's weight loss or lack of interest in food results from depression or emotional problems - or simpler problems such as tooth or digestive pain. Meanwhile, weight gain can be a risk factor for disability in older adults.

7. Isolation

Living alone, health problems and disability, sensory impairment such as hearing loss, and major life events such as loss of a spouse have all been identified as risk factors for social isolation and loneliness. I an elderly person suddenly shows little interest in social activities, it could be a sign of underlying medical condition.

8. Constant Pain

Chronic pain becomes increasingly prevalent as we age. In many cases, the lack of ability to manage pain properly by themselves signals the need for more all-inclusive care.

9. Poor Hygiene

An elderly person who suddenly exhibits poor hygiene and a lack of hygiene habits can be suffering from depression, dementia, or impaired mental status - and need diagnosis and monitoring by health professionals.

10. You are Stressed

If you are stressed out as a caregiver and find yourself snapping at people, or feeling frustrated, overwhelmed and anxious, then you may need to ask assistance from elder care professionals who have the time and training to deal with inherent challenges in elder health care.

Do any of these factors feel familiar to you?

Help is available!

It can be difficult to come to terms with the fact that a loved one may need long-term care. But take heart! There are programs that can help ease your burden, and that can help your loved one continue to live a healthier and fulfilled life in the comfort of their home and familiarity of their community.

This blog post was originally published in 2018 (H3329_2018_WEB_BLOG_M Approved 09252018), and has been updated with the latest statistical data in 2024. For educational purposes only.
Last updated November 8, 2024

In Her Own Words: E’lyse’s CenterLight Caregiver Success Story

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When CenterLight Healthcare PACE Allerton participant Betty Murray joined CenterLight PACE in 2010, she struggled with chronic pain, as well as the realization that she needed long-term healthcare. Here, Betty's daughter E'lyse describes the impact that CenterLight Healthcare PACE has had on her mom's life—as well as her own.

As a caregiver, I realized that I needed to be a little bit more proactive with my mom’s care. My mom is a very active young woman who is a leader in the community. She’s very artistic, very involved with her children, and very involved with any type of project that she’s working on. She has a very youthful mindset. But when I saw the fact that she was impacted with sciatica and that there was going to be a change in her lifestyle, I started thinking, wow—there’s a shift that’s happening. My initial response was: How am I going to do this? I started paying attention to the fact that life is happening. My mom is actually going through a little bit of a transition.

When she was in a nursing home, and going through some challenges, we were advised about CenterLight Healthcare PACE. I watched the way they embraced us, when we connected with them. We were introduced to a team of aides and great doctors and assistants and love and social workers. And these are people that came to the home and that gave me a level of comfort.

That told me I’m not alone. It’s just a warm, warm environment—they embraced my mom with all these different cultural arts, because she’s an artist. That just put a smile on my face, watching her take her art to another level. Those are the things that keep her going, keep her inspired, keep her happy. That makes me happy. To watch her at this stage of her life, to be continuously growing, is important to me. It’s amazing.

Learn more about CenterLight PACE’s benefits for caregivers on our caregiver page.

Reconfirmed accuracy with E'lyse and obtained permission to republish, October 8, 2024. Updated information: date when Betty was enrolled at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

H3329_2019_BLOGElyse Approved 03122019
Last updated October 8, 2024

For Providers: A Whole New Level of Care for Your Patients

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When you partner with CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), you enjoy a host of benefits for your practice, while helping your patients live safely and independently in their homes. PACE is an integrated model of care where older adults 55+ with long term care needs can enjoy access to all the care they require, including medical care; rehabilitation; social work, nutrition, and recreation services; prescription and over-the-counter medications; and home care.*

With CenterLight PACE, you remain the Primary Care Provider (PCP) and share the responsibility of patient care with our Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) which includes, but is not limited to, Nurses, Rehab Therapists, Social Workers, Dietitians, and Therapeutic Recreation Specialists. Some participants (individuals enrolled in PACE) may receive primary care services from us, but a large number keeps their existing doctors. We work with community providers, meet those we serve where they are, and integrate with their ecosystem. So when our doctors and the rest of the IDT encounter your patient throughout their healthcare journey, we address their immediate needs and strive to communicate, collaborate, and be true partners in care to you. As majority of PACE participants are frail older adults with complex medical and social needs, we count on having an effective and efficient relationship with our primary care partners to accomplish our shared goal of providing high quality services that help improve their quality of life.

Benefits for Your Medical Practice

One payor source: no need to bill fee-for-service Medicaid for Part B deductible and cost shares.
IDT develops, coordinates, and carries out an individualized plan of care and provides health education to participants and/or caregivers.
Transportation coordination for medical appointments reduces no-shows.
Improved engagement with participants who do not come frequently to their regular primary care appointments.
Access to homebound participants through the IDT.
Social worker helps with entitlements and behavioral health issues.
Collaboration with a pharmacist to assist with medication review and reconciliation.
An opportunity to grow your practice as we grow our membership.

PACE Model of Care: Proven Results

Through continuous collaboration between the participants’ primary care provider and the CenterLight PACE IDT, participants benefit from high quality, holistic care. IDT involvement helps prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, achieve high quality outcomes, and helps improve social determinants of health outcomes. The charts below illustrate how PACE outcomes compare with national averages.

Working Together to Provide High Quality Care

One of CenterLight’s core responsibilities is to ensure care coordination and delivery of services to our participants. Our participants’ consulting physician or primary care provider play an integral role as a member of their care team.

The CenterLight IDT provides wrap around services (urgent care access, chronic illness management, transition of care support, palliative care, and more) to your patient and functions as an extension to your team.
We collaborate with you when there is a change in a participant’s status and to closely monitor their condition. We are your eyes and ears when you can’t see them, and we strive to make our interactions brief, efficient and beneficial, and avoid adding unnecessary burden on you.
Medical encounter notes are required to ensure that the participant’s visit to your office becomes part of their medical records.
As part of PACE regulatory requirements, CenterLight participants are required to have semiannual and annual assessments done by members of their IDT. Most of these assessments may be done at the PACE Center. The nurse and physical/occupational therapist must do assessments and safety evaluations in the home twice a year.

Please check back soon for more articles about how we can work together to provide high quality care to those we serve.

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

H3329 ForProvidersBlog Approved 10292024
Last Updated September 4, 2024

*As determined by the IDT.
1 CenterLight Healthcare PACE Quality Report, all sites data in the last 90 days as of May 7, 2024
2 Number of Emergency Department Visits per 100 people in the US in 2021, Statista
3 Trends in Nonfatal Falls and Fall-Related Injuries Among Adults ≥65 Years, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), July 10, 2020
4 Flu Vaccine Coverage in the US 2014-2023, Statista.
5 https://media.market.us/home-healthcare-statistics/
6 CenterLight Healthcare PACE Tableau Census Dashboard as of May 2, 2024

The participant may be liable for the costs of unauthorized or out-of-PACE program agreement services. Upon enrollment, the PACE program will be the participant’s sole service provider. Participants will have access to all services needed as identified by the Interdisciplinary Team, but not to a specific provider of these services.

What You Need to Know About Diabetes and Older Adults

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November is National Diabetes Month! Learning about diabetes symptoms, prevention, and management is an important step you can take in preventing complications and continuing to live safely and independently in your own home.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. Blood glucose is the main type of sugar found in your blood and your main source of energy. Glucose comes from the food you eat and is also made in your liver and muscles. Your blood carries glucose to all of your body’s cells to use for energy. Your pancreas—an organ, located between your stomach and spine, that helps with digestion—releases a hormone it makes, called insulin, into your blood. Insulin helps your blood carry glucose to all your body’s cells. Sometimes your body doesn’t make enough insulin or the insulin doesn’t work the way it should. Glucose then stays in your blood and doesn’t reach your cells. Your blood glucose levels get too high and can cause diabetes.

What are the symptoms of Diabetes?

People who think they might have diabetes must visit a medical provider for diagnosis. They might have SOME or NONE of the following symptoms:

Frequent urination
Unexplained weight loss
Extreme hunger
Sudden vision changes
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Feeling very tired much of the time
Very dry skin
Sores that are slow to heal
More infections than usual

What are the risk factors of Diabetes?

Diabetes occurs in every age group. Although type 2 diabetes can affect individuals at any age, it is more likely to develop in older adults. In addition, those who are overweight, have a family history of the disease, are physically inactive, are African American, Hispanic/Latino American, Asian American, Pacific Islander or American Indian, also have an increased risk of developing diabetes.

What do you need to take care of your Diabetes?

Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. Here are a few things you can do to help manage your diabetes:

See your medical provider on a regular basis. Only a medical provider can accurately determine whether or not you have diabetes and what the next steps are for treating it.
Get your annual eye exam. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with diabetes are at a higher risk of vision loss and eye diseases, but more than 90% of diabetes-related vision loss can be avoided with early detection and treatment.
Get an annual foot exam. People with diabetes are at risk of diabetes-related foot conditions. Regular foot exams can help identify problems early and prevent them from getting worse.
Take your medication as prescribed by your medical provider. There are a variety of medications such as insulin injections or pills/tablets that can help control your diabetes and prevent it from getting worse or causing complications. It is important that these medications are taken as prescribed by your medical provider.
Watch what you eat. Ask a dietitian to help you develop a schedule of meals and snacks. Eat foods that are lower in calories, have less fat, less sugar, and less salt. Do not skip meals, as this can make your blood glucose level fall.
Be active. Physical activity can help you control your blood sugar and manage your diabetes. Always consult with your medical provider before increasing your activity level or starting an exercise program.

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

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Promoting Eye Health
Promoting Foot Health

Blog_NoPOInfo_DiabetesMgt
Updated October 16, 2024

Like a Light in a Dark Tunnel

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When participant Pamella Rose first heard about CenterLight Healthcare PACE, her health was not in the best place, and she was looking for a way to get assistance while remaining as independent as possible. She says that joining CenterLight PACE brought back light into her life in what seemed like such a dark time. In her own words:

CenterLight Healthcare PACE is like a second home to us. When you think back on your sickness that you go through, it is like you are in a dark tunnel. Being at CenterLight, it opened that light.

Pamella Rose loves the different activities at the CenterLight Healthcare PACE Day Health Center (DHC). She said that the activities keep her active, motivated, and help her forget about her pain. Pamella Rose's favorite activity, of course, is BINGO (she said this laughing because her daughters call her The Bingo Queen).

I feel so proud to be a part of the PACE Participant Council where our voices are heard by the managers. To me they really care about what is on our minds and hearts. I also love the cooking programs, gardening, arts and crafts, and the painting group.

According to Pamella, making friends is a wonderful part of participating in the DHC. They truly have become family to one another. Sometimes it is like they are sisters and brothers. They play dominos together, teach each other crochet stiches, and just talk. Pamella recalls being so into her word search book one day that it was like she could not hear anyone around her, she just had to find the next word. Her friend at the center was trying to get her attention all morning, but she was in her own little world. Her friend tapped her on the shoulder and said, “Finally your nose is out of that book!” She said she thought she was sitting here all alone. She apologized to her friend, and they just laughed about it.

I am so glad to know that I have CenterLight Healthcare PACE that I can come to in the mornings, and I am so thankful to be at this place. It is a blessed place. I was not looking for something like this at my age. God is good to me by doing these things. Sometimes you get your blessing, and it comes to you so suddenly and unexpectedly because of the good things that you do to other people. I appreciate being here and I would encourage other people out there to join CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Pamella Rose has been a CenterLight PACE participant for 8 years and is enrolled as a participant at the time of posting.

H3329 PamellaBlog2024 Approved 10292024
Last Updated September 27, 2024

What is Therapeutic Recreation?

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When sickness hits, it may become difficult for an older adult to have the energy, focus, or even the ability to go back to the things they once loved to do. That is where Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (TRS) come in—they design activities with our participants’ needs in mind. Therapeutic Recreation and socialization can lead to emotional, cognitive, and physical benefits. At CenterLight Healthcare PACE, our TRS assess participants’ leisure interests—what they’ve always liked to do, what they like to do now—and develop programs, activities, and events that can help them discover hidden talents, reconnect with hobbies and passions, learn new things, and share new experiences with their fellow participants.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE Therapeutic Recreation Specialists work with other members of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) to bring together different perspectives that ultimately allow us to provide holistic and complete care* to each of our participants.

Having a care team working together to help our participants remain living independently in their own homes helps us prevent any condition from worsening and provide high quality care in all aspects of their life. Let’s say a social worker brings up that a participant is particularly lonely. Therapeutic recreation can reach out and engage that participant and encourage them to come to the center, introduce them to peers that they have similar interests with, and engage them in activities that they would enjoy and can have an impact on their emotional health.

In terms of medical conditions, a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist may collaborate with the nurse as well as physical and occupational therapists by encouraging participants to engage daily in physical activities such as fun group exercise programs to get their weight down, or to increase their ability to work on their own.

What services does the therapeutic recreation department provide to participants?

At CenterLight Healthcare PACE Centers, the Therapeutic Recreation Department offers the following services to our participants, among others:

Art Therapy
Music Therapy
Dance & Movement Therapy
Pet Therapy
Games & Cognitive Challenges
Trips
Cultural Events and Celebrations

Our TRS love planning fun activities for participants to enjoy. For example, participants are encouraged to showcase their creative sides by letting out their inner artists in our fun and interactive art programs.

Art has several benefits for older adults, including positive effects on mental health, reduced stress, increased memory skills, enhanced self-esteem, better cognitive memory, and more.

Additionally, art is a great way for our participants to express themselves and connect with others. At times, participants may even discover a talent they didn’t know they have!

Some participants also enjoy playing music and joining in choral groups that entertain their peers. They perform at special events in their respective centers and enjoy the benefits of music in older adults.

Games and sports such as table tennis, floor hockey, and others bring out our participants’ competitive sides, help with their physical wellbeing, and enhance their camaraderie with their friends at our PACE Center. Just recently, our participants joined in the spirit of the Olympics with their own tournament, complete with opening and closing ceremonies.

How does Therapeutic Recreation benefit our participants?

Through Therapeutic Recreation, a participant’s overall health and mental health is improved. Just like medicine or medical treatment that they may receive from the doctors and nurses, engaging in things that we like to do and interacting with other people makes us happy, keeps our brain sharp, lowers our blood pressure, and contributes to overall mental and physical health. Participants engaging in activities benefit from the following:

Cognitive Benefits

Creative pursuits, like painting, strategic thinking, like playing cards or board games, can provide stimulation that can help improve memory, as well as cognitive and reasoning skills.

Emotional Benefits

Via stress relief, improved self-confidence and socialization.

Physical Benefits

Depending on the activity, participants may increase endurance and energy levels, range of motion of joints, eye-hand coordination, fine and gross motor skills, flexibility and strength.

Visit our Life at CenterLight page for recent happenings at our PACE Centers. You may also visit our Facebook page to view more pictures from our Therapeutic Recreation events and activities.

*Necessity of services is determined by the IDT based on participants’ unique needs.

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

H3329 TR_Blog_2024 Approved 10292024
Updated 09052024

Depression in Older Adults

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What is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that can affect the way we feel, act, and think. It is a common problem among older adults. However, it is not a normal part of aging. Depression gets better with treatment!

It is estimated that for older adults living in the community, 1% to about 5% of them have major depression. This number increases to 13.5% for older adults who need home healthcare and 11.5% for older adults that are hospitalized.

The first step to managing depression is talking with your doctor about symptoms so they can help you find the treatment that’s right for you.

What can depression look like?

Everyone can experience depression differently. Some of the symptoms for depression in older adults are:

Persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood
Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
Difficulty sleeping
Eating more or less than usual, usually with unplanned weight gain or loss
Thoughts of dying

If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, please see your doctor. You may be experiencing depression or another medical condition. The earlier you can identify symptoms the faster you can receive treatment.

It is also important to note that depression can look different depending on a person’s cultural background. Depression may be displayed as physical symptoms, such as aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems.

If you are a friend or caregiver, and you notice the above symptoms encourage the person to seek medical treatment. You won’t be able treat their depression, but you can also offer your time and support by encouraging them to seek medical attention or spending time doing what they enjoy.

Are you at risk for depression?

Symptoms of depression can begin to show after changes to the brain or major life events. Through research the following factors have shown to be related to the risk of depression but do not necessarily cause depression:

Medical condition, such as stroke or cancer
Family history of depression
Stress
Sleep problems
Social isolation and loneliness
Functional limitations

How is depression treated?

Once diagnosed with depression there are multiple forms of treatment. One common form of treatment is psychotherapy, also known as counseling or “talk therapy,” which can help address troubling emotions, thoughts, and behavior. Additionally, antidepressant medication can be prescribed to help balance hormones that affect mood.

Everyone is different and different combinations of treatment may be tried to be able to find the one that works for you. Some lifestyle changes may also be recommended to help complement treatment, such as, increasing physical activity, eating a healthy diet, or engaging in activities you enjoy. Research has shown that engaging in activities that you enjoy can have a positive impact on your mental health.

Individuals who experience depression may also benefit from the helpful tips listed here.

How can CenterLight help participants diagnosed with depression?

CenterLight PACE is committed to delivering our participants the personalized care that they need. So, we are here to help if you begin to experience symptoms of depression. Here is how:

CenterLight PACE Social Worker will conduct a Patient Health Questionnaire to assess your mood, provide supportive counseling during visits, make referrals, and coordinate the care plan and communicate with your primary care provider.
Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Specialists will engage our participants in activities that they enjoy, assisting in the improvement of physical and mental health.
Medical Providers can collaborate with your primary care doctors and specialists to facilitate medication management.

At our PACE Day Health Centers, participants receive services designed to support their overall well-being, from medical care to social activities and meals. In addition, participants can benefit from enhanced emotional and physical health by attending the PACE Center. Get an inside look at the services we offer at our centers.

Remember, here at CenterLight you have a full team working together to address your needs. You can get the help and treatment needed to manage depression.

Additional Resources

NYC Well/ NYC 998 provides free, confidential mental health support via phone, text, or chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in more than 200 languages.

If you are experiencing feelings of depression or any of the symptoms listed above, please let your social worker or any member of your care team know. You may also call the CenterLight PACE Service Coordination Team at 1-833-252-2737 (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM, M-F.

CenterLight 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 readers consult with their doctor regarding their care. If you would like to learn more about CenterLight, please call: 1-833-252-2737 (TTY 711), 8AM - 8PM, Monday - Friday. Representatives or message service also available on weekends.

This blog post is written by Stacey Thompson, LMSW, Social Work Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

H3329 Blog_no PO info updated 09052024

Sources:

Depression and Aging, CDC

Depression and Older Adults, NIH