September is the Time to Celebrate Assisted Living

With all that is going on around us, it is more important than ever to let our senior loved ones in assisted living know they are dearly loved and not forgotten as well as to thank the dedicated staffs of our area’s communities. National Assisted Living Week®, an annual event each September, does just that by celebrating and recognizing the role assisted living plays in caring for American seniors and those with disabilities.

Established by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995, National Assisted Living Week is the opportunity for assisted living communities around the country “to offer a variety of events and activities to celebrate the individuals they serve, as well as to help educate members of the public about this distinctive aspect of long term care.” By setting aside a week, the NCAL explains it provides a chance for residents, their families, staff, volunteers, and the larger community to honor those who live and work in assisted living. This year’s event starts on Sunday, September 13th, and coincidently falls on National Grandparents’ Day, which is observed on the first Sunday after Labor Day.

Even though this year’s celebration will be different than other years as many assisted living communities are discouraging visits or have stopped visitations altogether, there are still things we can do to let our seniors know they are loved. One idea is to surprise your loved one with something special each day that week such as preparing a home-cooked meal, making a CD of their favorite songs, or pampering them with a basket of gourmet foods or scented soaps and lotions.

When visits are not possible; stay connected by scheduling regular Facetime, Skype, or phone calls as well as sending updated family pics and news about their grandkids. Also remember not all seniors have families so think about starting an adopt-a-grandparent program like an Early Childhood PTA in Ohio did who have had their children send crafts, cards and letters throughout the quarantine to brighten a senior’s day at a local assisted living community.

Do not forget to show your appreciation to the hardworking staff who has stepped up to the challenges of keeping your loved one safe. Keep in mind some communities do not allow staff to receive gifts over a certain value so check with management. However your gratitude is always welcomed by a thank-you note, a framed picture to a favorite caregiver of them and your parent, flowers, or coffee and treats for all.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. Visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines has to offer.