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April is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the disease and educating people on the debilitating effects it can have on individuals…especially seniors.

Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological disorder that frequently impacts a person’s mobility; however, it can also cause non-motor symptoms, as well. Some of the most common symptoms include tremors, stiffness of the limbs, loss of coordination, and poor balance along with cognitive impairments, depression and anxiety.

It’s estimated that at least one million people in the United States struggle with Parkinson’s Disease. Onset typically occurs around age 60 with the risk of developing the disease increasing with age…making it particularly concerning for seniors.

Fortunately, as an all-inclusive Life Plan Community, St. Catherine’s Village in Madison, Mississippi is equipped to welcome residents who are at various stages of Parkinson’s Disease. The 160-acre community offers independent living in garden homes and apartments; assisted living in Marian Hall; memory care in Campbell Cove; and skilled nursing in Siena Center, Tuscany and Hughes Center.

While those in the early stages of Parkinson’s Disease can continue to live on their own, there comes a time when outside care is needed. At that point, many individuals find it comforting to move into a senior Life Plan Community where they have access to health services and professional caregivers.

During Stage One of Parkinson’s Disease, symptoms are mild and generally don’t interfere with daily life. In Stage Two, people can still live on their own but everyday tasks become more difficult to perform without help. In these instances, independent living is a wonderful choice because residents remain self-reliant yet daunting home maintenance chores are handled for them. At St. Catherine’s Village, each garden home and independent living apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen but dining options also are offered. Plus, residents can participate in social activities, on-site and off-campus events, fitness programs, arts and crafts, and more.

By Stage Three, individuals with Parkinsons’ Disease become unsteady on their feet, fall more frequently, and find their functionality restricted. The extra level of care provided by assisted living offers them an enriched quality of life. Residents in Marian Hall receive assistance with the tasks of daily living such as bathing, dressing and grooming; however, they are free to manage their own schedules and calendars with social, cultural, recreational, educational, wellness, and spiritual programs readily available. Nursing staff in assisted living also provide medication oversight, ensuring each person receives the right medications at the proper time of the day to enhance their wellness.

During Stage Four, Parkinson’s Disease patients are unable to live on their own. The 24-hour nursing coverage and personalized care in Marian Hall assisted living allow these individuals to function more successfully as the disease progresses. If the cognitive challenges and memory loss associated with Parkinson’s Disease Dementia present themselves, St. Catherine’s Village has exceptional memory care programs and specialized support strategies in the warm, home-like setting of Campbell Cove.

Finally, at Stage Five, around-the clock skilled nursing is required. Seniors at St. Catherine’s Village have options for this level of care including the award-winning Siena Center and state-of-the-art Tuscany. Both provide comprehensive, 24-hour RN coverage with physician oversight. Beyond person-centered medical care, skilled nursing at St. Catherine’s Village emphasizes social, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional well-being.

Making the decision to move to senior living is always a life-changing decision but can be more emotional when facing a debilitating disease. The beauty of St. Catherine’s Village is that someone who chooses the Life Care program can transition from one level of care to another on a timeline that matches the disease’s progression. And they have the added peace of mind knowing they can remain in a familiar environment long term.

For more information on the Life Care program or to schedule a tour, call (601) 856-0123 or visit www.StCatherinesVillage.com.