National nursing home week is May 11-17

Local nursing homes are preparing activities to celebrate National Nursing Home Week May 11-17. The American Health Care Association (ACHA) established the weeklong celebration in 1967.

Activities are designed to foster intergenerational relationships, collect and preserve patient's reminiscences, strengthen relationships with family members, celebrate quality, and recognize all staff members who demonstrate excellent care giving.

Hickory Creek at Sunset has a full agenda beginning Monday with a balloon lift off and followed by days of games like "What's My Line and the Newly Wed Game" as well as a visit from local auctioneer Jeff Rich.

"Our residents really get involved during this week and have a ball," said Office Manager Amber Gaddis.

"We really look forward to this week every year," she added.

The Waters of Greencastle kicks off its celebration on Sunday with a Mothers' Day Tea and entertainer Rick McMickle. They will have a visit from Smokey Bear on May 14. A tent revival will take place on Friday and Saturday where they will offer clowns and fun with face painting along with a Red Skelton movie.

Mill Pond Health Campus will present a Rods and Relics Day Saturday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. with a barbeque and entertainment with bounce houses.

The 13th is Favorite Hat Day and they will have staff Olympics on the 14th and a Spring Fling on the 15th. Also on the 15th, Dr. Justin Mohr, D.C. will discuss the importance of correct posture, staying active and healthy and the benefits of chiropractic care on the aging process at 6 p.m.

"Our really big day will be Saturday with the Rods and Relics Day. We'll have hot rods, food and a really good time," noted Director of Resident Services Jayne Harwood.

At Asbury Towers it will be business as usual. They will have general activities and theme days during the week but nothing "over the top," reported representatives.

Summerfield Healthcare, Cloverdale has lots of plans including a daily theme day. A ladies tea on Saturday will kick off events followed by Sports day Monday, Patriotic Day on Tuesday and a Hawaiian Day on Wednesday. Thursday is Big Top Circus Day and cotton candy will be featured. And Friday is Cowboy and Indian Day. Singing and entertainment will take place every day as well.