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.”