Pennsylvania Seeks Federal Funds to Expand Senior Care Program Statewide

HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA — Pennsylvania officials are pursuing $193 million in federal rural health funding to expand a senior care program that currently serves more than 8,400 participants but remains unavailable in eight counties across the commonwealth.

The Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) program had 8,446 unique participants as of last summer, making Pennsylvania the third-highest enrollment state in the nation for this type of program. Other states call it Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE.

Despite the high enrollment numbers, growth has remained relatively flat in recent years, according to Juliet Marsala, the state deputy secretary for the Office of Long Term Living.

Stagnant Growth Concerns Officials

“We continue to look at all opportunities to further develop, expand and move the needle with the LIFE program,” said Marsala. “I would like to see more people use it. The numbers are staying, I think, only less than a percent (in growth). But, I would rather see them increasing to 4, 5 or 6% a year. Or even higher.”

The program serves Pennsylvanians over age 55 and adults with disabilities who need specialized care. Participants receive transportation services and home support including nursing care through LIFE, which centers around community-based day centers offering on-site doctor appointments, meals and recreation activities.

Rural Counties Lack Coverage

Even after an October expansion effort, eight counties still lack any assigned LIFE providers, leaving gaps in coverage across the state.

“We’re still trying to get each and every single county covered,” said Marsala.

State officials believe federal dollars from the Rural Health Transformation Plan could provide the necessary resources to fill these coverage gaps. Marsala said the funding could help in “propelling the LIFE program model into some of our most rural counties.”

Pennsylvania’s application for the federal funding emphasizes the program’s ability to coordinate services across different payment systems, including both Medicaid and Medicare. This coordination capability could prove essential as the state works to address the needs of its rapidly aging population.

Addressing Pennsylvania’s Aging Demographics

The expansion effort comes as Pennsylvania grapples with demographic changes that have made it one of the nation’s most rapidly aging states. The LIFE program model offers an alternative to traditional nursing home care by allowing seniors to remain in their communities while receiving comprehensive medical and social services.

The community-based approach has proven successful in areas where the program operates, combining medical care with social activities and support services that help seniors maintain their independence. The day centers serve as hubs for coordinated care, bringing together healthcare providers, recreational activities, and meal services under one roof.

State officials view the federal rural health funding as an opportunity to ensure equitable access to senior care services across all Pennsylvania counties, regardless of their rural or urban designation.