As summer fades to fall and we trade sandals for sweaters, this month offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the older adults in our lives through National Assisted Living Week (NALW) and Grandparents’ Day. The annual celebration of Assisted Living Week was established by The National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995. It recognizes the role assisted living communities and their team members play in supporting seniors and individuals with disabilities. Each year this unique celebration kicks off on Grandparents’ Day; this year from September 8th through the 14th.
Grandparents’ Day was established by President Jimmy Carter in 1978 and serves as a moment to honor the contributions that grandparents make to families and to our society in general. Beyond the sweet smell of apple pies and unending patience in everything from shoe-tying to fishing lessons, grandparents touch our lives in numerous intangible ways, while offering a unique perspective on life. Taking one day to honor them is a small but meaningful gesture. Over the years, the day has become a special occasion for families to come together, share stories, and create lasting memories.
Why Do We Celebrate?
These days, it seems life moves more quickly than ever; it’s easy to get swept up in the latest tech, never-ending news cycle, and of-the-moment trends. Taking a moment to recognize older adults provides an opportunity for connection and reflection in our own lives, while highlighting the invaluable contributions of previous generations. It also helps to shine a light on the importance of creating supportive, enriching environments for seniors. Not just another “Hallmark Holiday,” Assisted Living Week offers a unique opportunity to recognize and honor the wisdom, understanding, and perspective that seniors bring into our lives.
The Power of Generations
This year’s theme for Assisted Living Week is “Inspiring Generations,” a focus that encourages communities to celebrate the bonds between generations and honor the people who live, work, and volunteer there. It is also a moment for reflection, providing team members, communities, residents, and their families the opportunity to consider how assisted living has evolved and grown, inspired by the residents and those who care for them. This is a moment to listen and learn from each other, share stories and wisdom, and find inspiration from those around you.
Many communities will mark this week with special celebrations for residents, families, and caregivers. While the sky’s the limit when it comes to planning a creative and engaging activity, celebrations often include themed days, special performances, educational workshops, and other gatherings. The goal? To highlight the vibrant nature and sometimes overlooked warmth of assisted living communities, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the incredibly positive impact they have on the lives of their residents.
Ways to Celebrate
There are so many ways to mark the occasion, yet some of the simplest can be the most impactful to inspire generations from the youngest grandchild to the matriarch of the family. Here are a few ways to honor the seniors in your life:
- Music Moves: Nothing connects generations like music. Consider seeking out a local band and request favorite tunes or simply connect a curated playlist of top hits to a speaker. The hokey pokey and the electric slide are crowd pleasers for all ages!
- Family Picnic: While the weather is still nice in early September, host an outdoor picnic or barbeque. Simple games like ring toss, face painting, and bubble blowing are fun and accessible for kids of all ages.
- Photo Op: Consider setting up a photo booth for a community or family gathering, and provide fun props: hats, signs, balloons, feather boas – anything goes! All you need is a vibrant background and a camera. Bonus points if you can coordinate grandparents and grandchildren to take pictures together.
- Sincere Stories: Ask your loved ones to share photos of their grandparents and trade stories with each other. Invite grandchildren to share stories about a grandparent and how they are inspired by them.
Honoring the Pillars of Our Families on Grandparents Day
Grandparents’ Day falls on September 8 in 2024. This special day is dedicated to celebrating grandparents and their significant role in the family structure. It provides an opportunity for families to express gratitude and appreciation for the wisdom, love, and guidance that grandparents offer.
The celebration of Grandparents’ Day often includes various activities such as family gatherings, special meals, and personalized gifts. Schools and community organizations in your area may also host events that allow children to recognize their grandparents and highlight the intergenerational bonds that enrich our lives.
This month, let’s embrace the opportunity to celebrate Assisted Living Week and Grandparents’ Day with enthusiasm and joy. These special days remind us of the incredible impact older adults have on us and how important it is to create communities where they feel valued. Whether you mark the occasion through a gathering, family dinner, or a small gesture of kindness, it’s essential to take the time to honor those who have shaped and continue to enrich our lives.