Submitted by ST. CATHERINE’S VILLAGE
As we navigate through the second year of a global healthcare crisis — one that is seeing new COVID-19 variants threaten the delicate balance we’ve achieved between face-to-face interaction and safety — the toll it’s taking on our seniors remains a concern. Without socialization and stimulation, our physical, cognitive and emotional well-being can deteriorate as we age. That’s why Life Plan Communities that provide these services are taking on more importance than ever.
What is a Life Plan Community?
A Life Plan Community, like St. Catherine’s Village in Madison, offers seniors housing with a continuum of care through their various stages of dependence, from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursing and even memory care if needed. An all-inclusive Life Plan Community allows residents to transition from one service level to another while remaining in a familiar environment.
How does a Life Plan Community support senior well-being?
Numerous studies have proved that staying socially active supports a senior’s overall well-being by reducing stress and anxiety and lowering the risk of depression, which often stems from isolation. At St. Catherine’s, numerous activities and events are available daily to keep residents engaged with each other. For physical health, the Life Plan Community provides exercise classes and wellness programs. Support groups also are offered, as are chapel services to nurture residents’ spiritual lives.
Is it safe to move into a Life Plan Community now?
Yes. St. Catherine’s Village specifically has implemented many additional protocols to help keep residents, staff and family members safe during the pandemic. Even prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, St. Catherine’s adhered to best practices for cleanliness and hygiene, and implemented strict infection-control procedures. Before the start of each flu season, for example, the award-winning community requires not only its staff be vaccinated, but also contract workers and private duty staff. This has garnered St. Catherine’s a place on the Immunization Action Coalition (IAC) Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll — the only Life Plan Community in the Jackson area to receive this designation.
The right care at the right time.
While moving to a senior living community is a thoughtful decision at any time, many people are weighing the pros and cons more carefully now. Only you can determine if a Life Plan Community is the right choice for you or your loved ones. Be sure to do your own research, speak to experts, and tour St. Catherine’s to see firsthand the measures the Life Plan Community has in place to minimize health risks while providing high quality care and much needed social interaction for residents. y
To learn more about St. Catherine’s Village, visit StCatherinesVillage.com or call 601.856.0123 to schedule a tour.
