Member Spotlight – Bluestem PACE
When people see Bluestem PACE, located at 113 S. Ash, probably one of the first things that pops into their mind is – this must be a nursing home or an assisted living center. But it’s not! Bluestem PACE is a Day Center opportunity that is designed to help older adults to continue living in their homes as long as it’s medically possible. Participants at Bluestem PACE are provided with a comprehensive plan of care that is tailored to their own individual needs. It will include things like addressing any medical issues the person might have, but they’re also focused on keeping folks active and maximizing their level of social interaction with activities and recreation.
The Bluestem PACE staff includes a physician, nurses, CNAs, PTs, OTs, and social workers. These folks meet regularly to keep updated on each PACE participant so they can assist that individual in meeting their own needs and goals. The nurse and physician are also on call so participants can reach out whenever there is a need. The goal of Bluestem PACE is to keep their folks in the community and in their own homes instead of having to transition to a nursing home situation.
Transportation for participants is a very important service provided by Bluestem PACE. If folks need transportation to get to an eye or another type of medical appointment, Bluestem PACE handles that. Even if the appointment isn’t on a day that person would normally be at the center, a Bluestem PACE driver will go to their home, get them to the appointment, and then return them back home. They do a lot of driving! How much driving? Well two years ago, they totaled up the number of miles that Bluestem PACE provided for participants and the distance accumulated for that year would circle the earth 5 ½ times! I can only imagine what it would be in 2024!
Keeping folks active is very important at Bluestem PACE. Activities like crafting, Bingo, trivia games, Bible studies, and yes … playing volleyball with pool noodles and a balloon are just some of the things participants can be a part of! The goal is to keep the folks engaged, active, connected, and having fun! And at Bluestem PACE that’s exactly what they do!
Bluestem PACE also has a Good Neighbor Fund to help their participants. This benevolent fund is in place to help folks with a need they have that isn’t covered by regulatory requirements. This Bluestem PACE Good Neighbor Fund can go toward something like a leaky roof, frozen pipes, or maybe an air conditioning unit that has gone out. Supporting the Good Neighbor Fun is a great way to support Bluestem PACE program and its participants.
Bluestem PACE has set a record in the number of folks they have served for the second year straight! So far this year they are serving 117 folks. That means 117 people who have been able to stay in their own home, thanks to the medical care and support, as well as the opportunities for socialization, making connections, and building relationships provided at Bluestem PACE. To learn more about Bluestem PACE, visit their website at bluestempace.org or give them a call at 844-588-7223 to schedule a tour of this amazing Day Center.
