Senior residents across Ocean County now have access to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), as part of a statewide expansion announced by New Jersey Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman, which is aimed at helping seniors remain in their homes and communities.

Adelman said the expansion marks a significant milestone in the Murphy administration’s effort to make PACE available statewide. In Ocean County, services are provided through BoldAge PACE, which operates out of Lakehurst and serves all ZIP codes in the county.

PACE provides comprehensive medical and social services for individuals 55 and older who meet clinical eligibility requirements and would otherwise qualify for nursing home–level care. The program is designed to allow participants to continue living in the community, with care coordinated by an interdisciplinary team of health and social service professionals.

“With the right support, older adults can continue living at home and in their communities, which we know can lead to better health, greater independence and an improved quality of life,” Adelman said in a statement.

Services covered through PACE include primary and specialty medical care, prescription drugs, adult day health services, personal and home care, nutrition services, hospital care, nursing care when needed, and transportation to and from medical appointments and the PACE center. The program is funded through Medicare and Medicaid.

Deputy Commissioner of Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire noted that PACE helps delay or avoid nursing home placement, an option many families prefer.

“PACE provides vital health and social services that can help individuals remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible,” McGuire said.

To participate, individuals must be at least 55 years old, meet clinical eligibility requirements, be able to live safely in the community with PACE support and reside within the program’s service area.