Seniors living with disabilities bring strength, resilience, and unique perspectives to our communities. At CEI, we’re proud to provide inclusive care that empowers our participants to live with independence and connection, no matter the challenge.
Here’s how.
Our Approach to Care – What Matters Most
Through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), CEI offers comprehensive support for seniors of all abilities. Each participant has a customized care plan that centers on what matters most to them. From medical care to social activities, our healthcare and services are designed to meet each participant where they are and help them thrive.
“This has been a godsend,” shares Shannon Hendon, a CEI PACE participant. “When I’m not at my day treatment program, I tend to sit home and do nothing more than play on my computer. Having somewhere I can go and be active and be among other people is really, really good for me.”
PACE participants receive services that address the whole person—body, mind, and spirit:
- Medical Care — Comprehensive medical services tailored to your unique health needs.
- Care Counseling — Physical, spiritual and mental support in your journey.
- Transportation — Reliable rides with wheelchair lifts and assistance to keep you connected.
- Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy — Personalized therapy to regain strength and enhance your mobility.
- Meals and Nutrition — Balanced, nutritious meals to feed your overall health and well-being.
“All-inclusive, comprehensive, and coordinated care is what allows our older adults to continue living their lives to the fullest—right within their own communities. That’s exactly what PACE programs are designed to provide. Every day, I have the privilege of not only witnessing this impact firsthand but also being part of an incredible team whose number one goal is to provide these services to help our participants thrive—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Here at CEI, we don’t focus on a person’s disabilities—we focus on their abilities and strengths. Our goal is to create a supportive community within our centers, where everyone is welcomed, celebrated, and empowered to thrive. As one of my participants stated the other day "I come to CEI because you all treat me like a human being and are so welcoming and caring. What more can I ask for?"
Darlyn San Jose, OTR/L
Rehabilitation Supervisor
A Voice for Inclusion: Meet Shannon
At 56, Shannon Hendon (they/them) calls themselves a “baby senior” and is deeply engaged in both the disability and LGBTQ+ communities.
“I am active in mental health. I am an active participant in Pride of all kinds—whether it be National LGBTQ programs or Disability Pride,” Shannon shares.
Living with cerebral palsy since birth, Shannon reflects on their journey.
“Growing up was traumatic between surgeries and being othered as a child. I went through a lot of bullying, which really affected my mental health. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that it’s actually an asset instead of a deficit. It just helps me to be the unique person that I am.”
Today, Shannon works as a program coordinator for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), helping others navigate their own recovery. Since joining CEI a year ago, Shannon has found new purpose:
“I have four of my seven days planned out for me, and it really works. There’s plenty of art projects I’ve fallen in love with. It gives me a reason to get out of bed, even on days when I suffer from ‘don’t wanna.’”
Through CEI’s PACE program, Shannon and hundreds of other participants connect, improve their health, and continue to live independently in their homes and communities.
Enabling Seniors at Center for Elders’ Independence
By fostering connection, independence, and inclusion, CEI ensures participants living with disabilities can live fully and meet their goals.
"Integrated care at CEI means we strive to see our participants in their wholeness. Spiritual support is about helping people embrace all of who they are—disabilities and all--as their unique, life-affirming story."
Mi Chun M.Div., BCC, CEI Chaplain
To learn more about the CEI PACE program, visit our PACE page or call (844)-319-1150.
