Hale Makua will open its Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) center Oct. 1 to help senior citizens maintain their independence in their homes for as long as possible.

The program, which provides medical and support services, is made possible by a partnership of the state Department of Human Services, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Hale Makua, a private nonprofit corporation that operates long-term-care homes in Wailuku and Kahului and programs for homebound clients.

Most of the services will be provided at the Maui PACE center in Kahului, which also offers a day program where participants can socialize and receive medical care and occupational and recreational therapy. Transportation will be provided, and in-home care can be arranged.

Officials said that without these types of services, seniors may be less likely to receive attention for chronic conditions and may suffer deteriorating health that leads to increased use of hospitals and emergency rooms.

The Maui PACE Center will operate 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays at Hale Makua's Kahului location, 472 Kaulana St.

Participants must be 55 years of age or older, live within the Maui PACE service area, and be living safely in the community at the time of enrollment. To make a referral or to obtain more information, call 442-4551.