Submitted by St. Catherine’s Village
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 their preferences.
Understanding the levels of senior living
- Independent living: Best for active older adults who can manage daily tasks on their own but want a lifestyle with fewer responsibilities. Independent living provides amenities, social opportunities, and a maintenance-free lifestyle — but no personal or medical care.
- 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.
- 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.
- Skilled nursing: Best suited for individuals who need 24/7 medical care and supervision from 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.
How to know when a higher level of care is needed
When seniors and families wait too long, they often seek a level of care that no longer aligns with current needs. But there are tips to follow to help find the right care at the right time. First, 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. Finally, 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 has the distinct advantage of offering all levels of care and is equipped to welcome residents to its 160-acre campus at all stages of senior living.
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, visit StCatherinesVillage.com or call 601-856-0123 to schedule a tour.