PACE: all-in-one care — not yet available on Cape Cod
PACE provides all medical care, a day center, transportation and home help through one team for people 55 and older who need nursing-home level care. As of September 2026, MassHealth lists Barnstable County among the counties where PACE is not available, so Cape residents cannot enroll unless they move into a PACE service area.
The numbers
| Minimum age | 55 (55–64 must be disabled) |
| Income limit (300% of SSI, 2026) | $2,982 a month |
| Asset limit — applicant | $2,000 |
| Spouse's assets (from 15 Jan 2026) | non-applicant spouse may keep up to $162,660 |
| Look-back for PACE applicants | 5 years, from 6 Apr 2026 |
| PACE in Barnstable County | not available |
What PACE is
A PACE organization becomes your entire health system. Care is given at a day health center, at home and, when needed, in the hospital or nursing home, all coordinated by one team. In Massachusetts it is also called the Elder Service Plan.
Who qualifies
You must be 55 or older (55–64 with a disability), certified as needing nursing-home level care, live in a PACE service area, and agree to get all your care through the PACE organization. For MassHealth to pay, your income must be $2,982 a month or less and your assets $2,000 or less.
- Since January 15, 2026, a spouse's assets are counted, and the spouse at home may keep up to $162,660.
- Since April 6, 2026, MassHealth checks for gifts or transfers in the five years before applying.
Options on Cape Cod instead
Similar coordinated care on the Cape is available through the Frail Elder Waiver (through Elder Services) or a Senior Care Options plan.
Mistakes families make
- Searching for a Cape PACE center; none is listed for Barnstable County.
- Assuming PACE ignores a spouse's savings; since January 2026 it does not.
Who to call on Cape Cod
| Who | Number | For |
|---|---|---|
| Elder Services of Cape Cod & the Islands | 1-800-244-4630 (508-394-4630) | Free home assessment, home care, Frail Elder Waiver, nursing-home screening; South Dennis |
| MassHealth Customer Service | (800) 841-2900 (TTY 711) | Applications, forms, questions about your case |
| MassOptions | (800) 243-4636 | Statewide line that connects you to elder and disability services |
What we could not confirm: No PACE organization serves Barnstable County as of 29 Sep 2026 (mass.gov PACE service areas page; MassPACE list). If a Cape PACE program opens, this page should be updated with its name, town and phone.
Next: All the ways to pay for care · Two-minute benefits check · What care costs on the Cape · Elder law attorneys
This page explains the rules; it is not legal advice. For your own situation, talk to an elder law attorney or SHINE.