National Assisted Living Week
By Mountain-Pacific Quality Health
September 15, 2022
This week, we are celebrating National Assisted Living Week and the outstanding work going into creating safe and reliable housing for older adults and those with disabilities.
According to the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), there are about 28,900 assisted living communities, with nearly one-million licensed beds in the United States today. More than 800,000 Americans live in these facilities, with most of the residents being 85 or older.
In honor of National Assisted Living week, here are five ways you can help celebrate!
1. Visit someone in an assisted living facility.
You likely know someone who lives in an assisted living facility. Although life is busy, take the time to visit your friend or family member. Stopping by to see them will show you care and give you the opportunity to catch up.
While you are there, be sure to thank the staff and volunteers who keep a watchful eye on your loved one. Assisted living teams often treat residents like family. They provide the best care possible, so take a second to show your gratitude.
2. Know the facility’s safety protocols.
Call ahead to make sure you understand any precautions before visiting. A major priority in these facilities is resident safety and infection prevention. You can ask whether you need a mask, how long you can stay and what visiting behavior is expected. Asking how you can support their efforts will be appreciated. And remember: if you are not feeling well, wait a few days to visit.
3. Encourage your loved one to stay healthy.
Your loved one is being well taken care of by staff and volunteers. However, it is important to remind them to advocate for their own health. They should know their rights as a facility resident and ask questions when they have them.
You can also encourage them to stay up to date on recommended vaccines. Protection from infectious diseases is the number one priority for vulnerable populations. Other important health reminders include making sure they are taking their medications properly, attending regular checkups, staying as active as they can and making healthy food choices.
4. Take an assisted living facility tour.
If you or a loved one is considering assisted living, try touring a facility. This will help familiarize you with how these systems work and the services offered. The tour could also inspire you to volunteer. You could help the staff carry out behind-the-scenes tasks that keep these places in tip-top shape.
5. Create something special for residents and workers.
Random acts of kindness go a long way to put a smile on someone’s face. Here are a few ways you could do something special for the residents or staff at an assisted living facility:
- Decorate cookies with them or bake and deliver cookies.
- Help host a bingo night.
- Bring kids in to play board games or cards with the residents.
- Invite the high school band and choir to preform for the residents.
- Cook a meal for the staff.
- Write a thank you card or letter for the staff or for volunteers.
Time is precious, and this week helps remind us of that. If you want to help celebrate National Assisted Living Week, reach out to your local assisted living center. See how you can make a difference in the lives of the staff and the residents.
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