Ribbon Cutting Marks Dedication of New EveryAge Elderhaus PACE Location

Elderhaus PACE, a program providing comprehensive all-inclusive medical and social services to individuals 55 and older with chronic health conditions, dedicated its new location at 1380 North College Road in Wilmington, N.C., Feb. 17 with a special ribbon cutting ceremony. Elderhaus PACE (Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) is operated by CHHSM member EveryAge.

In addition to gaining sufficient space for administration at Elderhaus, the new site provides the nearly 120 participants served at Elderhaus a dedicated therapy space, innovative medical and therapy equipment, health clinic, a large day room for programming, sensory room, and courtyard with outdoor space. The new open concept layout of the day center has over 18,000 square feet. The space includes large windows affording natural light to create an engaging atmosphere for participants. 

“The entire Elderhaus family is extremely excited to showcase our new facility to the greater community,” shared Ruth Finch, executive director at Elderhaus. “The new location better accommodates our current needs and allows us to be prepared for potential growth opportunities in the future.”

Following the ribbon cutting, attendees toured the new facilities. Additionally, several  common space areas were dedicated to those who have been instrumental in the success of Elderhaus. The highlight of the afternoon was the dedication of the building’s former chapel honoring the founder and former CEO of Elderhaus, Linda Pearce, who retired in 2013. 

Pearce is a staunch supporter of aging services and advocate for the underserved populations. Through her ongoing efforts and determination, Pearce opened Elderhaus in 1981 as an adult day care. This new center gave families seeking an alternative to nursing home placement another option. Elderhaus originally resided inside St. James Episcopal Church. In the years that followed, Elderhaus would undergo several developments including expansion, relocation, and administrative changes. In 2008, Elderhaus opened North Carolina’s first PACE center. The PACE model transformed elder services by providing all-inclusive medical care and socialization to improve the quality of life of seniors. 

Today, Elderhaus is housed in two locations; Elderhaus at the Lake near the scenic Greenfield Lake and Elderhaus PACE which is at the new location on North College Road. 

“We lead and serve with the same determination and spirit as founder Linda Pearce,” said Finch. “Elderhaus remains committed to meeting the needs of older adults and their families in the New Hanover area.”