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Choosing the right senior living option for yourself or a loved one is a deeply personal decision—and one that ideally should be made before a health crisis forces it. Many families begin exploring senior housing opportunities with certain expectations; however, the reality is that the level of care needed may already exceed what they’re looking to find. Understanding the key differences and planning proactively can lead to better long-term outcomes, improved quality of life, and peace of mind for all.

Why Early Planning Matters

Many people put off the conversation about senior living until there’s a medical event, a fall, or a sudden change in cognitive health. At that point, the options become more limited—and the process more stressful. Planning early allows time for thoughtful decisions, tours, financial preparation, and involvement from the senior themselves, helping to ensure that the choice reflects both their needs and preferences.

When seniors and families wait too long, they often seek a level of care that no longer aligns with current needs. For instance, someone hoping to move into independent living may be struggling with medication management, mobility issues, or isolation—challenges better addressed in assisted living. Similarly, mild memory problems may progress to the point where assisted living alone is no longer sufficient, and memory care becomes a safer, more supportive option.

Understanding The Levels Of Senior Living

Before making a decision, it’s important to understand the main types of senior living and what each offers. A Life Plan community such as St. Catherine’s Village in Madison, Mississippi, has the distinct advantage of offering all levels of care.

Independent Living: Best for active older adults who can manage daily tasks on their own but want a lifestyle with fewer responsibilities. Typically attached villas or apartments, independent living provides amenities, social opportunities, and a maintenance-free lifestyle—but no personal or medical care. Independent living at St. Catherine’s Village can be found in garden homes and apartments available for adults who are at least 62 years old and want to enjoy fullness of life, health and faith without the hassles of homeownership.

Assisted Living: Ideal for individuals who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or medication management, but do not require round-the-clock medical care. Assisted living also fosters social interaction and offers dining, housekeeping, and recreational programs. Marian Hall on the St. Catherine’s Village campus provides a nurturing, supportive environment where independence is encouraged but friendship, assistance and reassurance are always available.

Memory Care: Specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Memory care residences provide 24/7 supervision, structured activities, and specially trained staff to ensure safety, comfort, and engagement. St. Catherine’s Village’s Campbell Cove offers a homelike ambiance and outstanding memory care programming to calm and comfort seniors facing memory challenges and help them maintain a sense of purpose.

Skilled Nursing: Best suited for individuals who need 24/7 medical care and supervision provided by licensed nurses. This level of care supports those recovering from surgery, requiring rehabilitation services, managing chronic conditions, or needing long-term care for serious health issues. Three options are available for skilled nursing at St. Catherine’s Village: Hughes Center, Siena Center and Tuscany. Combined, they offer person-centered 24-hour care for residents while addressing their social, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional needs.

How To Know When A Higher Level Of Care Is Needed

Here are a few tips to follow to help find the right care at the right time.

• Start early and begin the conversation before a health crisis occurs. This gives you time to research, tour communities, and get input from your loved one.
• Don’t be afraid to seek a Care Assessment. Most senior living communities offer free evaluations of a senior’s physical, cognitive and social needs to help determine the right fit. You can also consult with a physician or senior care advisor for additional guidance.
• Be honest. It’s natural to want the most independence possible, but choosing the right level of care ultimately ensures the resident’s safety, comfort and well-being.
• Reduce resistance by empowering seniors themselves to have a voice in the decision.
• If possible, consider communities that offer multiple levels of care so your loved one can “age in place” and seamlessly transition to higher levels of care as their needs change without having to relocate to a new community. As Madison’s preeminent all-inclusive Life Plan Community, St. Catherine’s Village is equipped to welcome residents at all stages of senior living to its 160-acre campus.

Finding the right senior living arrangement isn’t just about where someone lives—it’s about how well they live. By planning ahead, staying realistic about current and future needs, and understanding the distinctions between care levels, families can make informed decisions that provide the right balance of support, independence and dignity.

The best time to start the conversation is now…not when it’s urgent…because when it comes to senior care, timing truly matters. For more information on how to find the right care at the right time at St. Catherine’s Village, visit www.StCatherinesVillage.com or call (601) 856-0123 to schedule a tour.