The Green Houses at Traceway - With an ongoing commitment to providing a meaningful environment for elders, Mississippi Methodist Senior Services (MMSS) decided to pursue a unique approach to delivering care, based upon the Eden principles developed by Dr. William Thomas. MMSS and The McCarty Company have developed the first Green House project to be built in the United States. The Green House concept is intended to further de-institutionalize nursing home life and provide a "warm, green and smart" environment where elders can engage in meaningful life activities, thereby eliminating the plagues of "loneliness, helplessness and boredom."

The first phase of the 120-bed project included four homes designed to accommodate 10 elders each in private rooms with private bathrooms surrounding a large living area called "the Hearth," complete with fireplace, open kitchen with breakfast bar and a large family-style dining table sized to seat 12 persons. The relationship of the private rooms to the Hearth allows the elders to easily control their own level of social engagement by closing their own door for privacy, opening their door to observe activities in the Hearth, or to join the group and engage in various activities. Each home has been designed to encourage participation in the activities of life such as menu planning, preparation of meals (or at least watching), setting the table and recreational activities.

Phase I was delivered using the design / build method and completed in 2003. Phase II is currently underway and will include six 12-bedroom homes, also being delivered using the design / build method. The houses meet regulatory guidelines and fall within Mississippi Medicaid reimbursement levels.

An Assisted Living Green House is also scheduled to start in 2004-2005.

Green Houses growing across the U.S.
· Maui, Hawaii
· Phoenix, Arizona
· Columbus, Georgia
· Southern Pines, North Carolina
· South Hutchinson, Kansas

Developed in partnership with...