Balita sa Programa at Mga Webinar Building a support system as you age Hul. 31, 2026 Learn about programs and resources available to improve Washingtonians’ well-being. The WA Cares Fund is designed to help Washington workers receive long-term care. During a recent webinar, we invited panelists to discuss support system options for older Washingtonians who need help with their care needs. For older adults looking to live at home as long as possible, there is a Medicare program called Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE. PACE provides people age 55 or older with a team of medical and social service professionals who help participants continue living at home and receive adult day health services at local community centers. “Your team provides personalized care based on your needs and preferences,” explained Lecy, Marketing and Enrollment Specialist for Providence PACE Washington. “They get to know you. You and your family actively participate as the team develops and updates your care plan and goals.” PACE team members include: Primary care providers Registered nurses Social workers Physical, occupational and recreational therapists Mental health providers Pharmacists Dieticians “Your team meets on a weekly basis to discuss your current needs and help maintain your health and independence,” continued Lecy. Among the services PACE participants receive access to are: 24/7 physician and nursing staff coverage (including holidays) Necessary care equipment and medical supplies Recreational and therapeutic activities In-home caregiving services Transportation to medical appointments A common issue for older adults living at home alone are mental and behavioral health concerns. About one in three U.S. adults report feeling lonely and about one in four report a lack of social and emotional support, with older adults at a greater risk for these feelings. Earlier this year, the Washington State Health Care Authority partnered with a public relations firm to start the See How I Feel campaign. “The campaign wants to connect older adults with behavioral health services and programs,” explained Melissa, Behavioral Health Communications Manager from the Health Care Authority. “And to address the stigma that comes with people thinking that depression or lack of excitement are normal parts of aging when they are not.” After collecting feedback from across the state, See How I Feel organizers designed a website to guide visitors looking for mental health resources. They also produced English- and Spanish-language public service announcements on recognizing negative mental health symptoms and finding treatment options. Among the resources on the See How I Feel website are conversation guides for how older adults can start discussing their feelings with family and friends, or how providers can start mental health conversations with patients. “The conversation guides give you some guidance on what to say and how to say it when starting discussions around mental health,” said Melissa. Watch a replay of our webinar to learn more.
