“It Feels Like Home” How PACE Gave Betty Her Life Back

From medication support to community connection, Betty found everything she needed, all in one place.

Betty Roberts never expected a Monday morning phone call to change her life. A 77-year-old Army veteran, retired respiratory therapist, and longtime Shepherdsville resident, Betty had always taken care of herself. But when vision issues, diabetes, and an old shoulder injury began adding up, staying independent started to feel overwhelming.

Then came the call.

“Betty, you’ve been approved for Care Guide Partners PACE.”

Just three days earlier, an enrollment specialist had helped her complete the paperwork. Betty expected a long wait. Instead, relief came before the week was over. That moment marked a new beginning.

Finally, Some Relief

Before enrolling on April 1, 2025, Betty faced a growing list of challenges. Her prescriptions were costly. Her blood sugar was difficult to manage. Getting to medical appointments required relying on others. She worried about becoming a burden.

All of that changed the day she walked into the PACE Center in Elizabethtown, a welcoming hub where doctors, therapists, social workers, and care staff work as one team.

Her care plan includes:

• Prescription coverage
• Home-delivered meals
• Eye and dental care
• Diabetes support
• Transportation
• Insurance and benefits help

“It frees my sons up. They don’t have to worry. I can manage everything now, and that makes me feel good.”

For the first time in a long time, Betty felt at ease knowing her needs were being met.

Medical Care That Listens

With decades of healthcare experience, Betty values clarity and communication. At PACE, she finally found a team that took time to explain her conditions and treatments.

“They told me everything I needed to know. That had never happened before.”

Her care team scheduled an orthopedic appointment for her shoulder and followed up with physical therapy. Managing diabetes also became easier with daily hot lunches and meal delivery that support her blood sugar levels.

“They make sure I have what I need and that I understand what’s going on. That makes a huge difference.”

Betty was surprised to learn that dental care, often excluded from insurance, is part of her plan.

“I was shocked. I didn’t expect dental help here, but they set it up and I was really impressed he came out and checked everybody’s teeth.”

A Place That Feels Like Home

Each morning at the center starts with coffee and light movement. Then come activities like games, crafts, and painting. One of Betty’s favorites was a Fourth of July abstract art piece, which she now displays at home.

“It’s amazing what some of the people here can do. They’re so creative.”

For Betty, the real difference is the people.

“Everyone here is helpful. They don’t just talk at you. They listen, they follow up, and they help you figure things out.”

When she stayed home one day, someone called just to check in.

“They asked if I was okay and if I needed food. It meant a lot knowing someone really cared.”

Support That Travels with Her

Betty no longer drives due to her vision, but since transportation is included with PACE, she has peace of mind knowing she has reliable rides to all of her medical appointments and to the PACE Center itself.

“They’ve taken me to several doctor’s visits I used to rely on my son or grandkids for. It’s been a big help. Without it, I wouldn’t go anywhere.”

The team coordinates everything—from lab work and prescriptions to follow-up care.

“It gives you peace of mind knowing they’re watching for anything that needs attention.”

Sharing the Love (and a Prayer Plant)

Betty believes in the program so much that she’s referred nearly a dozen friends.

“Some people are nervous about switching doctors. I tell them, give it three to six months. See if your life doesn’t get easier.”

She even donated a prayer plant to the center to inspire others.

“It reminds us to stay grounded. It’s a little part of home, even when I’m here.”

What She Wants You to Know

Today, Betty’s blood sugar is improving. Her shoulder pain is under control. Her sons spend time with her, not as caregivers, but as family. And whenever newcomers visit the center, she’s the first to greet them.

“If you’re offered PACE and don’t try it, you’re missing out. It’s all in one neat package. You can’t get any better than that.”

Many participants come for the prescription coverage, transportation, or in-home support. But they stay for what Betty discovered: independence doesn’t mean doing it all alone. It means having a team you trust—one that helps you live on your terms.

Serving Central Kentucky

Care Guide Partners PACE is the only Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly serving Bullitt, Grayson, Hardin, Hart, LaRue, and Nelson counties. As an affiliate of Hosparus Health, the program surrounds adults 55+ who qualify for nursing home care with medical, social, and in-home services so they can remain safely where they belong: at home.

Want to Learn More?

If Betty’s story speaks to you or someone you love, we’d love to talk.

Tour the PACE Center: 109 Buffalo Creek Drive, Elizabethtown, KY
Call: 270.600.2580, TTY: 270.600.2589
Visit: CareGuidePartners.org/pace