Southern Oaks

Southern Oaks is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) owned by Americare Senior Living, which has experience with senior care, and the community tries to focus on personalized, holistic care through its "Live Well" program, so folks get help that fits their needs, whether that means assisted living, memory care for cognitive conditions, nursing home options, or even short-term rehabilitation after a surgery or illness; people can move between types of care if their needs change over time. There's a strong effort here to help people stay active and connected, with a regular calendar of activities, games, hobbies, group outings, and wellness programs. Southern Oaks has comfortable spaces where residents gather for meals, with a dining program that includes open breakfast, comfort foods, guest meals, and options for people who prefer vegetarian, kosher, low-sodium, or no-sugar diets, plus a private dining room for special gatherings. Residents have access to a salon and a community garden, which give folks a chance to tend plants or freshen up with a haircut, and outside you'll find walking paths and areas for quiet, relaxed time outdoors.

The care team includes dedicated care partners, licensed nurses, and certified medication aides who help with daily living needs, medication management, and medical care, and there's a 24-hour call system for safety, so help's always nearby, even overnight. People can get therapy services-physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rehab for recovery-and home health solutions covered by Medicare are available too, sometimes delivered right to a person's apartment if needed. The community has regular admission counseling to help families sort through care options, paperwork, and any public long-term care benefits, and Veterans Affairs (VA) aid assistance is provided when needed. Southern Oaks offers apartments with kitchenettes, wheelchair-accessible showers, ground floor availability, Wi-Fi or cable TV, and air conditioning; there's general parking in a lot, uncovered spaces, and transportation for appointments and errands.

The community supports independence but steps in when extra help's needed, whether that's with grooming, bathing, meal preparation, or medication reminders, so people can feel at home and cared for, not just as residents but known personally by staff who treat them like family. Respite care is available, and insurance is accepted for payments, which helps families during transitions or emergencies. Pets aren't allowed, so there aren't cats or small dogs, but there are plenty of features and activities designed to help people find comfort, connection, and purpose, with an emphasis on dignity and individual choice. Staff organize on-site entertainment, handle maintenance and housekeeping, offer religious services for those interested, and work to create a place where people can participate as much as they wish, whether that means joining a fitness program, working in the garden, or just enjoying the fresh air on a walk. Prospective residents are welcome to tour the community, meet the team, and see firsthand what living at Southern Oaks can be like.

Southern Oaks is managed by Americare Senior Living.

Americare Senior Living, founded in 1985 and headquartered in Sikeston, Missouri, has grown from its first assisted living community to operate more than 100 senior living communities across Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee. With over four decades of experience serving seniors, Americare has distinguished itself by bringing upscale assisted living products to rural markets throughout the Midwest and South, providing comprehensive care options including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and adult day services.

The company's philosophy centers on their signature "Hometown Hospitality™" culture and F.A.M.I.L.Y. values: First Impressions Go a Long Way, Address People by Name, Make Visitors Feel Welcome, Individuals Deserve Respect, Leave with Graciousness, and Yes! Find a Way to be Positive. This person-first model of care prioritizes the interests and preferences of each individual resident, creating welcoming, family-like atmospheres throughout their communities. Their mission to enrich the well-being and health of individuals while providing peace of mind for families drives every aspect of their operations.

Americare's comprehensive "Live Well" program exemplifies their holistic approach to senior care, featuring personalized fitness programs, engaging group exercises, on-site therapy, and nutritious chef-prepared meals. The company fosters vibrant, supportive environments through community events, shared meals, stimulating games, group outings, and purpose-driven programs including volunteer opportunities, spiritual services, creative projects, and nature walks. Notable innovations include TigerPlace in Columbia, Missouri, developed in partnership with the University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing, which serves as a site for groundbreaking research in senior care.

The company's commitment to excellence has earned remarkable recognition, including being rated among the Best Senior Living providers based on surveys of nearly 450,000 residents and family members. With 65 communities receiving "High Performing" ratings, Americare ranks third among all senior living organizations in the Top 10 nationally. Additional accolades include the prestigious Argentum Best of the Best Award, the 2019 NRC Customer Approved Award (one of only twenty organizations nationally to earn this distinction), and ranking #15 on the 2021 Best Workplaces in Aging Services list by Great Place to Work®. With 84% of team members believing Americare is a great place to work and 91% finding special meaning in their roles, the company continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents, families, and team members across their communities.