September is National PACE Month, an opportunity to increase awareness of how the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) helps older adults with complex health needs remain safely and independently in their communities. This year’s theme, “Thank You, PACE,” recognizes the participants, families and care teams whose experiences demonstrate the value of the PACE model.
For 44 years, Center for Elders’ Independence (CEI) has provided coordinated care and supportive services to East Bay seniors. Today, CEI serves participants through six centers across Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
PACE brings each participant’s care together through one interdisciplinary team. Depending on individual needs, services may include primary and specialty medical care, rehabilitation, medications, transportation, nutritious meals, social activities, behavioral health and support at home.
A recent national study led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers new evidence of the model’s impact. After accounting for age, health status and other differences, researchers found that PACE participants had significantly lower rates of hospitalization, emergency-department use and one-year mortality than a matched group enrolled in traditional Medicare Advantage plans.
“This national study confirms what CEI has witnessed for more than 40 years: when a coordinated team takes responsibility for the whole person, older adults experience better outcomes and a better quality of life,” said Maria E. Zamora, CEI President and CEO. “PACE unites medical care, social supports, and caregiver partnerships through one interdisciplinary team, empowering older adults to maintain their independence, avoid unnecessary hospitalizations, and remain safely at home and connected to the communities they cherish.”
CEI participant Deborah Jackson’s story shows that coordination in action produces better outcomes. Deborah experienced a stroke while visiting family in Southern California in December 2025. While she received hospital and skilled-nursing care away from home, CEI stayed connected, coordinated with her providers and planned her return to the Bay Area.
CEI arranged wheelchair-accessible transportation, prepared a downstairs living space in her home and developed a rehabilitation plan. Today, Deborah receives physical, occupational and speech therapy through CEI’s San Leandro Center. With CEI PACE transportation, she is able to attend the PACE Center twice a week where she enjoys meals and activities with her friends. She is walking with assistance and is now receiving therapy to get her back in the kitchen and cooking for herself.
“Giving up is not in my vocabulary,” Deborah said. “I am just interested in moving forward. It helps that I have an awesome set of people supporting me along the way.”
This National PACE Month, CEI celebrates Deborah’s determination—and the participants, families and care teams who demonstrate the power of coordinated care every day. For older adults who want to continue living at home, PACE offers more than a collection of services. It offers a team behind every step.
Author and Photographer: Aurelia Santos
Interested in learning whether PACE is right for you or a loved one? Visit our Eligibility and Enrollment page or call (844) 319-1150 to learn more about the Center for Elders' Independence and see if you qualify for our comprehensive PACE services.
