“Capture The Moment” is this year’s theme for National Assisted Living Week, which runs from Sunday, September 9th – Saturday, September 15th, 2018. During this week, the role of assisted living communities across the country is highlighted.
At Senior Living Options of the Desert it’s all about the moment. This @National Assisted Living Week we celebrate today and each day with all of the assisted living communities, staff and incredible residents here in the Coachella Valley, Inland Empire and throughout Southern California.
What is National Assisted Living Week?
National Assisted Living Week was started in 1995 by the National Center for Assisted Living. It provides a unique opportunity for residents, their loved ones, staff, volunteers, and the surrounding community to recognize the role of assisted living in caring for our seniors and people with disabilities.
Although the dates change each year, it always kicks off on Grandparent’s Day which is the first Sunday in September after Labor Day.
There are special events planned for staff, volunteers and residents. It is also an opportunity for assisted living communities to educate the public about the services they provide and why so many families find them important.
Each year a different theme is chosen to help celebrate the week. This years theme is “Capture the Moment” which hopes to inspire residents to realize their dreams and seize the day.
The theme also aims to remind assisted living staff that often the little, everyday interactions with residents can deliver high quality, person-centered care. Assisted living communities across the country are encouraged to organize activities and events that help residents celebrate their past while also enjoying the present.
National Assisted Living Week Events 
Although the events vary each year with the theme, the fact that it kicks off on Grandparents Day highlights the importance of family and tradition. Besides the residents’ own family members, an emphasis is also put on the fact that those who live and work in assisted living facilities also create their own family.
For many residents who either lost family members or whose family members live far away, the assisted living staff becomes even more vital and the only family they truly know. Activities centered on the theme of family include:
- Staff working with residents to create a family tree that can be shared
- Other art projects that include the drawing of family portraits or encouraging residents to bring out old family photos
- Activities to help residents to get to know each other better
Assisted living centers also will invite family members in to discuss any ideas they may have to improve services or offer educational events on specific disease their loved ones may be dealing with.
During National Assisted Living Week the hard work and dedication of staff members is also recognized. Many times luncheons or other events will be held to honor staff.
How To Get Involved
If you have a family member who lives at an assisted living facility be sure to take part in National Assisted Living Week every year. While you may think you know everything about the facility, you may be surprised to learn interesting facts about the services provided as well as the staff.
If you are interested in finding an assisted living community near you, we can help. Call us at 760-322-0322 or contact us here. We look forward to speaking with you!
About Senior Living Options of the Desert
Senior Living Options of the Desert is Southern California’s leader in senior living referral. We’ve been helping families find compassionate care for their loved ones since 2004.
Whether you’re looking for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or another form of senior care, our local family advisors will help you find the right option for you and your family. Our mission is to provide families with the best residential care options based on care needs and location, no matter what the budget. And, our services are always FREE.
You can get more information at www.seniorlivingoptionsofthedesert.com.
