Senior LIFE Reading, part of a national program called LIFE – Living Independence for the Elderly in Pennsylvania, has opened and is offering complete medical care and supportive services for persons 55 years and older. The program is the first of its kind in Berks County and offers qualifying seniors healthcare, transportation and personal support services at no cost.
LIFE is a home and community based healthcare program funded by Medicare and Medicaid that allows seniors to receive the services they need to remain living in their home. The LIFE Program is an alternative to nursing and personal care homes.
To be eligible for the Senior LIFE Reading program at no cost, seniors must be 55 years or older; live in Berks County; be able to live safely in the community; and be medically and financially eligible. For those who are not financially eligible, there is also an option to pay privately for services.
“We estimate that there are approximately 4,500 qualifying seniors in Berks County,” said Melanie McGarry, executive director of Senior LIFE Reading. “These seniors now have a program that allows them to stay in their homes while receiving medical and personal care. Senior LIFE even provides transportation which is often a relief for many of our families.”
The opening of Senior LIFE Reading comes after a nine-month renovation project. The program spent more than $5 million on the purchase and renovation of the building, which is located in Exeter Township. The new Center features a full medical clinic, therapy room, day rooms for activities, a full kitchen to provide meals and personal care facilities.
“A program like this is greatly needed in this community,” said Dr. Govind Kachhadiya, Senior LIFE primary care physician. “Seniors deserve quality care that also allows them to keep their independence. For families who serve as a caregiver for aging loved ones, this program offers critically needed support that helps many families avoid putting their loved ones in a nursing home.”
The new program has about 20 employees on staff, but hiring will continue as the number of participants grows. Positions include nurses, therapists, social workers, member assistants, outreach coordinators and more. The program will focus on hiring locally.
“Bringing jobs to this community is an important part of what we are doing,” adds McGarry. “We’re proud to work hand-in-hand with the local medical community to bring a quality and proven model of care to Berks County.”
Seniors and their families who are interested in Senior LIFE Reading can call 610-404-3200 to talk with a team member about eligibility, or stop in the LIFE Center for a tour Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The Center is located at 20 Shelbourne Rd., Reading. For more information, you can also visit the website at www.seniorlifereading.com.
Senior LIFE is a Medicare and Medicaid program of all-inclusive care for the elderly (PACE) operating as a LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) program in the state of Pennsylvania. The program uses a team approach to provide seniors in the Berks County area with medical, social, nutritional and rehabilitation services. To learn more about Senior LIFE Reading, visit www.seniorlifereading.com.
