In the long term, nursing homes may need to explore entirely new models of care, Brown assistant professor Elizabeth White added, pointing to the Green House model, which establishes smaller scale facilities and emphasizes self-sufficiency and community, as an example. “There’s work around really innovative solutions out there."

"Most people with ALS want to stay home rather than suffer the indignity of moving to a traditional nursing home. I hope for a world in which the Leonard Florence Center for Living is the standard of care in America."

The Green House concept just makes perfect sense for elder care, McAlilly said. "It's built around the concept of home," he said. "It's their home, and we just happen to work there."

Michael Holt has lived at Traceway Retirement Community in Tupelo for about two years. He said the community, which is set up like a normal subdivision with nursing home capabilities in each home, was unlike any other he’s seen. “I am alive for these parties,” Holt said with a smile as music blared, people danced and others played yard games. “I love it up here. There’s no comparison.”