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Indianapolis resident Erwin “Erv” Schreiber, 94, has found solace and support through Franciscan Health’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). After losing his wife in 2019 and facing mobility challenges due to a leg amputation, Schreiber was introduced to PACE by a staff member at his prosthetist's office.
The program has helped him address the difficulties of living alone. Schreiber expressed gratitude for being able to remain in his home filled with cherished memories. "It means everything to me to get to live at home," he said.
Schreiber regularly visits the PACE center in Greenwood, which opened last year. There, he engages in various activities with other participants. The center offers exercise sessions, games, arts and crafts, and music. Schreiber takes pride in displaying his artwork at home and cherishes the paint stains on his sweatshirt as reminders of enjoyable times at the center.
“From that very first day I was at the PACE center, all I saw was smiling faces,” Schreiber shared. He praised the staff for their dedication and support: “They are interested and want to encourage you every chance they get.”
PACE provides more than social activities; it also ensures healthy meals tailored to dietary needs and coordinates medical appointments for participants like Schreiber. His daughter Linda appreciates the comprehensive care her father receives: “We know Dad is in good hands with PACE.”
Schreiber encourages others considering PACE to visit the center: “They are encouraging, helpful and faithful,” he said.
Franciscan’s PACE program will participate in Indiana Senior Day at the Statehouse on March 18. Hosted by State Representative Robin Shackleford alongside CICOA Foundation and All Senior Citizens Connect, this event will gather over 100 seniors for discussions with legislators and networking opportunities.
