Category: Blog

Painting with Passion

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Shelly Colley, director of the Friends of CenterLight Foundation, sat down with Bronx CenterLight PACE Center participant Nancy Rivera for an interview. They discussed Nancy’s passion for painting and how she has had to adapt this passion to accommodate her near blindness caused by a myopic stigma, coupled with Glaucoma.  

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Shelly: Ms. Rivera, is it okay if I call you Nancy? I am so happy to meet with you today. When I saw your paintings, I told the CenterLight PACE recreation staff that I just had to meet the artist!

Nancy: Oh yes, it is fine if you call me Nancy. My mother named me after Frank Sinatra’s daughter Nancy because she felt it is a strong American name.

Shelly: I am really admiring your paintings. The brilliant colors of yellow, red, and green daisies pop out from the canvas like real flowers. The hues of smaller blue and pink flowers interwoven together seem so life-like to me. When did you start painting and what piqued your interest to paint?

Nancy: I started when I was a little girl. I couldn’t wait for the Sunday Daily News to arrive so I could color in the “color by number” picture that came with it. We spent a lot of family time in our home, so my brother and I had many creative outlets.  My biological father was also a professional artist, and I think my brother and I inherited his talent.

In the 1970’s, I graduated from the High School of Music & Arts, which is now known as the La Guardia High School of Music, Arts & Performing Arts. And yes, this is the school on which the movie Fame was based. The four years I spent at this school helped me to home in my artistic skills and fed my love for painting. I continued painting for the rest of my adult life. As a mom raising my son and daughter, I always had art supplies available at home for them. My son is an engineer and designer, and my daughter has always loved arts and crafts.

Shelly: I understand you are legally blind and have been dealing with vision loss for many years. Could you explain what it is like painting with impaired vision?  Also, what inspires you to create these beautiful paintings?

Nancy: The way that I see, well, I try to describe this to people -- it is as if I am looking through one-piece of Cheerio cereal, and the center hole is where I see into. What inspires me is nature in all its glory. It can be any type of natural setting too. From landscapes to flowers in a market, to walking outside to seeing photographs. My friends travel the world and I ask them to send me photos from wherever they are. Then I pull the photos up on my iPad and enlarge them. From there, I can see the most brilliant landscapes.

Shelly: Just one last question: how long have you been attending CenterLight PACE at the Wallerstein center in the Bronx?

Nancy: I have been coming to CenterLight PACE for the last 5 years. I love the painting classes that our Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Specialist Michelle Van Etten runs. The room that we paint in has very good light, which is so important for me. I have some wonderful friends here who also paint. We all find it so relaxing and soothing. 

About This Article

This blog post is part of CenterLight PACE’s series highlighting our participants’ stories.

Nancy Rivera has been a CenterLight PACE participant for 5 years and is enrolled at the time of posting.

Shelly Colley is the Director of the Friends of CenterLight Foundation.

H3329_2023_BLOGPassionForArt Approved 03302023
Last updated March 9, 2023

Keeping Up with the PACE of Aging

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At CenterLight PACE, we understand that growing older may present health challenges, and that the pace of aging can get overwhelming.  

More and more, there’s a growing need for services for individuals who are aging and/or may have a form of disability. Let’s look at the numbers: Currently, New York State has more than 4.3 million older adults, ranking 4th in the nation in the number of individuals age 60 and over.* The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University previously projected that the number of older adult households in the United States in which at least one person has a disability will be at an estimated 12 million by 2035—with many of them requiring assistance with activities of daily living to be able to stay in their homes.**

It’s not easy for anyone to deal with healthcare concerns—it can be expensive, stressful, and may get confusing. For older adults, it can be especially tough, not just for them but also for their caregivers. As we age, our health issues may start to multiply, and managing multiple conditions, along with other aspects of life, can feel too much to handle even with support from family and friends.

Depending on need, there are programs that can help. I have devoted my career to the health and well-being of older adults, managing nursing homes, managed long term care, and other community-based programs. Based on my experience, I can confidently say that PACE is a great option for those who need complete care but want to remain in their homes and communities.

PACE stands for Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. This Medicare and Medicaid program for adults 55+ provides all the services our participants need to help them stay well and living independently in their own homes. CenterLight PACE is the largest non-profit and one of the oldest such programs in the nation. Our services include, but are not limited to, medical and home care, dental, vision, hearing, rehabilitation services, access to open gym, therapeutic recreation services, prescription drugs, Over the Counter (OTC) items, transportation, and more.*** We manage and coordinate our participants’ care, so that they don’t have to.

We understand that in addition to their health, older adults also face other issues brought not only by aging but the ever-changing and fast-paced environment we live in as well. The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, for example, brought with it social and economic hardships that many are still recovering from. CenterLight recognizes this, and to help with basic needs such as food and toiletries, our PACE participants get a My Needs Card with $170 a month**** to spend on eligible items.

There are aspects of aging that do not necessarily come to mind when planning for the future, or when thinking of solutions as health issues arise. Living well as one ages does not mean only worrying about health, but also keeping true to who the person is—their own unique histories and cultural traditions—so we work to ensure that care is individualized according to each of our participants’ needs and preferences. The goal is to help them make the most of each day whether doing activities they love, or even discovering new passions and making new friends at our PACE centers.

The CenterLight PACE Interdisciplinary Team (IDT)--which includes, but is not limited to, doctors, nurses, rehab therapists, social workers, dietitians, and therapeutic recreation specialists--provides care and support that can help navigate the challenges faced by older adults and their loved ones. We believe in a holistic approach: caring for the person as a team and making sure their needs are met medically and have positive effects on their social, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Together with our growing network of providers, our participants, and their caregivers, we can keep up with the pace of agingr to provide high quality care to those we serve.

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


H3329_2022Blog_PACEofAging Approved 10122022
Last updated October 3, 2022

*From the New York State Department for the Aging
**Data from Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, 2017 Study
***Medical necessity is determined by the IDT.
****No rollover. The My Needs Card does not substitute for required or already provided Medicaid and/or Medicare covered services under the PACE standard benefit package.

Portrait of the Artist: Sister Maryanna Euring

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CenterLight Healthcare PACE Amityville Participant Sister Maryanna Euring, 82, is an accomplished Asian brush painter. She has been a CenterLight participat since 2018. Here, she shares ways this 2,000-year-old artform has impacted her life, especially in the age of COVID.

A Lifelong Dream.

I’ve always loved Asian brush paintings. When I was a little girl, my mother took me to the Brooklyn Museum and there was a room dedicated to Asian art. It captivated me. It’s one of the oldest art forms, based on the Buddhist tenet of being present. I started taking art lessons and it came very naturally to me. Even though I am a Catholic nun I appreciate the Buddhist way of mindfulness.

Giving Back.

I’ve earned thousands of dollars for my painting but I don’t keep the money myself. As a nun, I took a vow of poverty. I have donated the money to literacy programs for immigrant women and to Puerto Rican earthquake relief. It gives me great pleasure to share my gifts with the world.

In addition to the DHC activities, Irma also enjoys physical and occupational therapy and receive all the services she needs to remain living in the community. 

Divine Inspiration.

I meditate first and the brush leads the way. I have an idea but the brush does something else. It helps me let go of any worries. Painting is what kept me going during COVID. I have an idea but the brush does something else. It helps me let go of any worries. Painting is what kept me going during COVID.

Silver Linings.

One good thing about COVID is that there has been more time to reflect and spend time with family, which is a wonderful gift. I hope when we get back to “normal,” whatever that is – that we’ll still take time to be with each other.

Sister Mary Anna is a CenterLight PACE participant at the time of posting.

H3329_2021_BLOGArtist Approved 07022021
Last updated June 11, 2021

A Better Betty

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Ms. Betty has been a CenterLight PACE participant for 9 years and was enrolled at the time of posting. This blog post was written in her own words.

I’m Betty J. Murray, I live in the Bronx, and I’m 74 years old. I have 3 sons and 1 daughter. My children grew up here, and through adversity all four of my children are successful. My job was to teach in a specialized kindergarten. We were the first special ed kindergarten in our district. There were children from shelters, children that were being raised by grandparents. We were trying to figure out ways to bring the community together so we created a lot of cultural programs. I’ve done about 46 years of community work. I’m still doing it!

I had a tragic situation that happened with me where I got hurt on the job with one of my children. I had an inflamed sciatic nerve and that put me in the hospital, which put me into a nursing home. I was in my head going crazy like, I can’t work? Something is changing, I’m becoming different. The me that I knew was becoming a different me. A social worker was kind enough to tell me about CenterLight.

The very first day I came to CenterLight I didn’t want to talk to people. A nice person came up in a wheelchair and she introduced herself. She said, “I know what you’re going through.” Her name was Sabrina.

And I had the opportunity to meet the young ladies I call CenterLight daughters. They were so warm and inviting and they got me into painting. It sparked something in me that I knew I have another life. There’s another part of Betty Murray besides the other part that I was leaving.

I always said that God sends you different people when you need them. I have a wonderful aide and she helps me get ready every day. Especially since I had surgery, she’s been everything to me. Joining CenterLight was the best thing that ever happened to me because it educated me about my body and it encouraged my mind and my spirit. So, it was another part of Betty that became a better Betty.

H3329_2019_BLOGBetty Approved 03122019
Last updated February 27, 2019

Overcoming Overwhelm: Taking Care of Yourself (Part 3)

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So far, we’ve discussed the stress and burnout you may feel as a caregiver and explored some strategies to find balance in caregiving. Now we want to take a moment to focus on you, caregiver! Being a caregiver can be overwhelming, and it’s vital to make space for your own health and happiness.

Take Time for Your Own Health

Although you’re invested in your loved one’s health, it’s also important to not make your situation worse with avoidable health woes.

Don’t forget your doctor visits. It’s easy to forget about your own health when you’re busy with a loved one’s care. Don’t skip check-ups or medical appointments. You need to be healthy in order to take good care of your family member.

Exercise. When you’re stressed and tired, you probably would prefer napping vs. working out. But if you exercise, you’ll feel better afterwards. Exercise is a powerful stress reliever and mood enhancer. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes on most days—break it up into three 10-minute sessions if that’s easier. Regular exercise will help boost your energy level and fight fatigue.

Meditate and/or Pray. A daily relaxation, visualization or meditation practice can help you relieve stress and boost feelings of joy and well-being. Try yoga, deep breathing, or mindfulness meditation. Even a few minutes in the middle of an overwhelming day can help you feel more centered. If you believe in a higher power, take a few moments to pray and connect.

Eat well. Fuel your body with fresh fruit, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats such as fish, nuts, and olive oil.

Limit sugar, caffeine and alcohol. These may feel and taste good in the short run, but will quickly crash you.

Rest up. Most people need more sleep than they think they do—8 hours is the norm. When you get less, your mood, energy, productivity, and ability to handle stress will suffer.

Take Time to Refresh and Recharge

As a busy caregiver, leisure time may seem like a pipedream. But it’s crucial to give yourself permission to rest and to do things that you enjoy on a daily basis. When you replenish yourself, you’ll have more to give to others.

Stay connected. Don’t let your friendships get lost in the shuffle of your demanding schedule. These relationships will help sustain you and brighten your outlook. If it’s difficult to leave the house, invite friends over to visit with you over coffee, drinks, or dinner.

Pursue joy. Make regular time for things that bring you happiness, whether it’s reading, gardening, playing an instrument,  listening to music, or watching the game.

Up your focus with down time. If you’re not regularly taking time-off to de-stress and recharge your batteries, you’ll end up getting less done in the long run. Paradoxically, a break will likely make you feel more energetic and focused, so you’ll quickly make up for your down time.

Pamper yourself. Small luxuries can go a long way. Light candles and take a long bath. Ask your spouse for a back rub. Get a manicure. Buy fresh flowers for your home. Do something that makes you feel special.

Make yourself laugh. Laughter is an excellent antidote to stress—and a little goes a long way. Read a funny book, watch a your favorite comedian or sitcom, or call a friend who makes you laugh.

Get outside. Seek out friends, family, and respite care providers to step in with caregiving so you can have some time away from the home.

You have a tough job, caregiver, but we know that you know how rewarding it can be. Consider joining our mailing list to receive our free e-book explaining the PACE program to use yourself or give to another caregiver in your life. We’ll be blogging again soon about more resources. Until next time!

H3329_2019_Overwhelm3 Approved 03052019
Last updated February 11, 2019

Overcoming Overwhelm: Finding Balance as a Caregiver (Part 2)

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In part one of this this series, we looked at the signs of stress and burnout. Here, we offer tips on achieving balance, and even thriving, as a caregiver. If these tips resonate with you or make you think of another caregiver who could use support, consider sharing this resource with them.

How to Affirm Yourself and Get Support

Reframing your perspective and leaning on others for support are vital to affirming your caregiving choices and struggles.

More power to you. Feeling powerless is the number one contributor to burnout and depression. And it’s an easy trap to fall into as a caregiver, especially if you feel stuck in a role you didn’t expect or helpless to change things for the better. But no matter the situation, know that you aren’t powerless. This is especially true when it comes to your state of mind. You can’t always get the extra time, money, or assistance you’d like, but you can always cultivate more happiness and hope.

Embrace your role. Acknowledge that, despite any resentments or burdens you feel, you have made a conscious choice to provide care. Focus on the positive reasons behind that choice. Perhaps you are repaying your parent for the care they gave you growing up. Or maybe it’s because of your values or the example you want to set for your children. These deep, meaningful motivations can help sustain you through tough times.

But don’t let it take over your entire existence. Invest in things that give you meaning and purpose—whether it’s your family, your career, a favorite hobby, or your spirituality and belief system.

Try the following tips to ease your burden and feel more balanced:

Focus on what you can control. You can’t wish your mother’s Alzheimer’s away or force your brother to do his part. Rather than stressing out over things beyond your control, focus on how you choose to react to problems.

Imagine how your loved one would respond if they were healthy. If they weren’t disabled or preoccupied with illness or pain, how would your loved one feel about the care you’re providing? Remind yourself that the person would express more gratitude if they were able.

Celebrate the small victories. If you start to feel discouraged, remind yourself that all your efforts matter. You don’t have to cure your loved one’s illness to make a difference. Don’t underestimate the importance of making your loved one feel more safe, comfortable, and loved!

Find ways to acknowledge and reward yourself. Remind yourself of the good you’re doing. If you need something more concrete, try making a list of all the ways your caregiving is making a positive difference. Review the list when you start to feel low.

Get the appreciation you need. Feeling appreciated can go a long way towards managing a stressful situation, and enjoying life more. Studies show that caregivers who feel appreciated experience greater physical and emotional health. Believe it or not, caregiving actually makes them happier and healthier, despite its demands.

Seek support from family members and friends. Positive reinforcement doesn’t have to come from the person you’re caring for. Remember that when you’re feeling unappreciated, friends and family will listen to you and acknowledge your efforts.

How to Ask For Help

Taking on all of the responsibilities of caregiving without regular breaks or assistance is a surefire recipe for burnout. Don’t try to do it all alone.

Just say “yes.” Don’t be shy about accepting help. Let people feel good about supporting you. Develop a list of of small tasks that others could easily take care of, such as picking up groceries or driving your loved one to an appointment. Have it ready when someone offers to help you.

Look into respite care. Enlist friends and family who live near you to run errands, bring a hot meal, or watch your loved one so you can take a well-deserved break. In-home services can also be provided by volunteers or paid help, either occasionally or on a regular basis. You can also explore out-of-home respite programs such as adult day care centers and nursing homes.

Speak up. Don’t expect friends and family members to automatically know what you need or how you’re feeling. Be up front about what’s going on with you and the person you’re caring for. If you have concerns or thoughts, express them. People often make incorrect assumptions, and can be poor mind-readers.

Delegate. Involve as many family members as possible. Even someone who lives far away may be able to help. Also, try divvying up caregiving tasks. One person can oversee medical issues, another can look after finances, and another with manage groceries and errands, for example.

Communicate. Ask a family member, friend, or volunteer from your church or senior center to call you on a set basis. This person can help you spread status updates and coordinate with other family members.

Lose (some) control. Managing is one thing; trying to control every aspect of care is another. People will be less likely to help if you micromanage, give orders, or insist on only doing things your way.

Ultimately, the most important element of finding balance is having support!

A caregiver support group is a great way to share your troubles and find people who are navigating similar experiences. If you can't leave the house, many Internet groups are also available. To find a community support group, look online, ask your doctor or hospital, or call a local organization that specializes in your loved one’s health problem. To find an Internet support group, visit the websites of organizations dedicated to your loved one’s health issue.

Our next blog will focus on you, caregiver, and how to make space for your own health and happiness while caregiving.

H3329_2019_Overwhelm2 Approved 03052019
Last updated February 11, 2019

Overcoming Overwhelm: Tips to Avoid Caregiver Stress & Burnout (Part 1)

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No matter how strong you are, caregiving can be overwhelming. Caring for an ill or older loved one can have a huge impact: on your health, relationships, and state of mind. This can eventually lead to burnout.

This is part one of our series on Overcoming Overwhelm: Tips to Avoid Caregiver Stress & Burnout. Below, we explore signs that you may be stressed and burnt out, as well as the importance of caring for yourself. In part two, we’ll offer tips on achieving balance by refreshing and recharging yourself—for both and your loved one’s sake. In part three, we’ll cover some additional strategies for self care.

Care for Your Loved One, Care for Yourself

Without the physical, emotional, and community support you need, the demands of caregiving can leave you vulnerable to depression, anxiety, and burnout. And when you get to that point, both you and the person you’re caring for suffer. No matter your stress level or situation, there are plenty of strategies to ease your stress levels, regain your balance, and start to feel positive again.

If you’re in a state of burnout, caregiving is no longer a healthy option for you or the person you’re caring for, so it’s important to watch for the warning signs. By learning to recognize the signs of caregiver stress, you can take steps to get the help that you need.

Signs You're Stressed

  • Anxiety, depression, irritability
  • Fatigue and exhaustion
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Drinking, smoking
  • Overeating
  • Hyper-sensitivity
  • New or worsening health problems
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Increasing resentfulness
  • Neglecting responsibilities
  • Cutting back on leisure activities

Signs You're Burnt Out

  • Diminished energy
  • Frequent illness
  • You’re always exhausted, even after sleeping
  • You are neglectful and apathetic of your own needs
  • You feel helpless and hopeless
  • Your life revolves around caregiving, but it gives you little satisfaction
  • You’re unable to relax, even when help is available
  • You’re increasingly impatient and irritable with the person you’re caring for

Do Any of These Signs Feel Familiar?

Check out part two, where we’ll offer tips on how to restore balance and find and joy in caregiving. We’ll touch on developing a supportive community, reframing your perspective, and ways to seek the affirmation and help that keeps you going. Then in part three we’ll focus on you, the caregiver. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey!

H3329_2019_Overwhelm1 Approved 03052019
Last updated February 11, 2019

Nilda’s Story: A Family Affair

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Ms. Irene has been a CenterLight Healthcare PACE participant for 10+ years and is enrolled at the time of posting. This blog post was written in her own words.

My name is Nilda Lugo. I was born in Puerto Rico. I came here when I was 11 years old. I went to school and I got married here. I have 3 beautiful children and 4 grandchildren. On Sundays, my family comes here. I love to cook for my family—I did it for such a long time and besides, if I get company here, you’re not leaving without eating!

I found out about the center, CenterLight, 16 years ago when my mother needed help and joined. Then when I started to have trouble with diabetes and other problems, I decided to join as well. My mom went to the center for almost 16 years. When I started at the center, the doctor told me that she wanted me to get some therapy. I was getting arthritis in my hand. They were almost going to operate. Thank God, so far, I can do everything with them. I think they do a great job. 

Right after I eat my breakfast I go to see my people. I’ve got to say good morning to them. I say hello and give my love to everyone. We’re getting a lot of new people. I welcome them. 

I really like the treadmill and I love the bicycle. I didn’t even know how to ride one. Using these made me feel stronger and I have lost about 55 pounds. We go on trips. We go to eat out in restaurants. We go to museums and even to the theater. A nurse comes to visit me every week to check my blood pressure and that I am taking my medication.

My doctors and therapists and nurses listen to me. Each one of them are different and they all make you feel good. They have taught me not to be afraid. CenterLight helps me to be independent and strong and I love it!

H3329_2019_JanuaryBLOG Approved 02132019
Last updated January 30, 2019

Irene’s Story: A Bronx Tale

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Ms. Irene has been a CenterLight Healthcare PACE participant for 2 years and is enrolled at the time of posting. This blog post was written in her own words.

My name is Irene Weinberg. I’m a native New Yorker—I grew up in the Bronx. I had a great childhood and had a lot of friends. We used to sit on the stoops, kind of like A Bronx Tale. I went into the financial world and I worked for almost 50 years. After being outsourced, I was really lost for a while. Very depressed. My health began to quickly decline and I didn’t know what to do. I kind of felt that I was just getting older watching the world go by. Where were the golden years?

I did some investigating on my own and I found CenterLight. I started one day as a trial and I haven’t left since. I enjoy it tremendously. When I arrive in the morning, I’m greeted by very friendly, smiling faces. I just come to life as soon as I walk through the door. My favorite activity is drawing. It relaxes me. It lets me express…me!

I also come to the open gym. I discuss with my Occupational Therapist, and she guides me. Leg exercises, arm exercises—I feel that my body really has shown improvement.

I have a health attendant that comes to my home. We shop, we take walks outside. She also assists me with housecleaning and laundry. She’s a great aide. It’s helped tremendously.  Because of CenterLight, my mental health really has improved dramatically. As we mature, there are some things we have to face in life, and CenterLight has really helped me face them gracefully!

H3329_2019_JanuaryBLOG Approved 02132019
Last updated January 30, 2019

CenterLight Healthcare has an approved PACE contract with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and NY State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Enrollment in CenterLight Healthcare PACE depends on renewal of its contract with CMS and NYSDOH. Participants may be fully and personally liable for the cost 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. Please contact us for more information.

H3329 CLPACEWebsite Approved 10222024

Last Updated on August 5, 2026
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