National Assisted Living Week is held annually each September to honor the ongoing contributions of the dedicated staff and volunteers as well as the surrounding communities involved in the operations of assisted living facilities. Aging residents are celebrated, too, on this special day.
What is the value of assisted living facilities?
Seniors who wish to live independently but require minimal help with the activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, and eating, choose to age in assisted living facilities. These residences vary in size and amenities but aim to support the care needs of the older population.
Typically, assisted living facilities are home-like environments. Senior residents have opportunities to live in apartments or individual rooms. Many of their daily needs are taken care of, such as laundry, housekeeping, and balanced meals. Facilities vary from small (25 residents) to large (100 residents).
Elderly residents have numerous amenities at their fingertips. Some assisted living facilities offer transportation services, exercise classes, and outings. Others may have a beauty salon onsite and walking trails where active older adults can immerse themselves in nature. Educational speakers may present.
In the United States, approximately 30,600 assisted living communities exist with assistinghands.com/1/health/senior-living/assisted-living-statistics/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>1,804. Yet, the supply of available beds is greater than the demand.
How did National Assisted Living Week start?
Given the large number of assisted living facilities across the US and the continual support their staff and volunteers provide to elderly residents, it’s only fitting that a week be dedicated to their efforts. In 2024, this celebratory week is held September 8-14.
In fact, the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) established this week in 1995. It is a unique opportunity for the community, family members, and staff to recognize the positive impact assisted living facilities have on caring for the nation’s senior citizens and people with disabilities.
The week centers around activities and events intended to celebrate assisted living facility residents. It is also a chance to educate the public about long-term care. Slightly over 8 million Americans receive support from various types of long-term care services.
What is the theme for 2024?
The theme for National Assisted Living Week this year is “Inspiring Generations.” As families, friends, volunteers, staff, and communities celebrate this weeklong occasion, they are encouraged to share posts and photos on social media, such as Facebook or Twitter, using the hashtag #NALW.
How is National Assisted Living Week celebrated?
1. Invite Multiple Generations
Since this special week kicks off on Grandparent’s Day, it provides families with the opportunity to invite multiple generations: adult children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Celebrations may include live bands that play songs seniors choose. Dance to the classics with the elderly.
2. Share Stories
Families and communities might hold a picnic in the park or a barbecue to honor aging residents. During these fun-filled events, guests can bring photos of their grandparents and share stories about their influence on their lives. Grandchildren take the stage to speak about their inspiring grandparents.
3. Hold a Photo Op
Get-togethers are ideal times to snap photos of the grandparents with their grandchildren. Set up a scenic background and offer props. After the photos are taken, provide printed copies to them. If seniors aren’t tech savvy, the younger generations might teach them how to use a phone or tablet.
4. Host a Dance
Communities are also encouraged to celebrate National Assisted Living Week. High school groups, like the Honor Society, might host a formal dance with residents. A DJ might liven up the afternoon while snacks and beverages keep those with two left feet entertained.
5. Swap Books
Involve the local library, too. Invite elementary students to the library to read to the elderly and vice versa. It’s the perfect time to swap favorite stories and books. Hold a storytelling session where students learn about seniors’ life experiences and traditions.
6. Share Art and Music
Art and music are also powerful vehicles of expression during National Assisted Living Week. Community members and aging residents connect with each other through paintings and singalongs. Older adults might showcase their artwork or participate in talent shows in the community.
7. Write an Op-Ed
Even the local media can be a part of the weeklong festivities. Representatives from assisted living facilities might pen an op-ed about their plans for residents. An active senior resident might follow up by sharing a letter to the editor about their experience during the celebrations.
National Assisted Living Week is a time for not only celebrations of the seniors and staff who make their communities a success, but a chance for everyone to learn from and be inspired by each other through stories and sharing their experiences.
Residents living in assisted living facilities receive the support they need to remain independent. But many older adults opt for an equally supportive option: senior home care. Assisting Hands Home Care delivers compassionate in-home care to the elderly so they have the opportunity to age in place.
Our renowned home care agency prioritizes the physical, emotional, and social health of the seniors we serve. We offer personalized, hands-on care to aging adults, allowing them to remain independent at home and continue to be a vibrant part of their beloved communities.
Responsibilities our professional caregivers perform include help with personal hygiene tasks, healthy meal preparation, grocery shopping, and medication reminders. We keep the home clean and comfortable with light housekeeping. Caregivers assess the home for fall risks and remove fall hazards.
We’re also pleasant companions who prevent seniors from becoming lonely or isolated. Care services include safe transportation to doctor appointments and hospitals, as well as regular visits to seniors in assisted living facilities, offering both wellness checks and companionship to brighten their days. Each senior receives a customized care plan designed to meet their unique needs.
Call us at (561) 566-5989 to learn more about our caregiving services for seniors living in Ballensiles, Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, Jupiter, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, West Palm Beach, FL and the surrounding areas.
Assisting Hands
Alexis Nguyen is the owner of Assisting Hands Home Care Sarasota, FL. She is also an executive with 30+ years of experience in healthcare business and technology. She was a certified Project Manager (PMP) who rose through the ranks to become the Senior Director of a medical department in one of the country’s largest healthcare insurers.Guided by a commitment to multiculturalism, she has developed multi-year strategy plans and created, shaped and cultivated the “Best in Class” culture. She is driven to spread kindness and compassion, ultimately making this world a better place to live.
For more information: https://assistinghands.com/55/florida/sarasota/about/meet-the-team/
For more information: https://assistinghands.com/55/florida/sarasota/about/meet-the-team/
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