CELINA-Activity Director Loretta Tinsley has been named facility Caregiver of the Year for 2011 by Celina Health & Rehabilitation Center. Tinsley has worked at the nursing home for 20 years.

In addition, Celina Health & Rehabilitation Center has nominated Tinsley for district and statewide honors through the Tennessee Health Care Association’s (THCA) Caregiver of the Year program. Six district winners, one from each of THCA’s six geographical districts (Memphis, Jackson, Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville and East Tennessee), will be recognized during the association’s Annual Convention & Trade Show Aug. 28-31 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.

From the six district winners, the statewide Caregiver of the Year will be selected. The statewide Caregiver of the Year will be named and honored on Nursing Home Caregiver Appreciation Day, Nov. 18, in a ceremony at his facility.

Now in its 13th year, THCA’s Caregiver of the Year program provides member facilities the opportunity to honor those who provide much-needed, round-the-clock support for nursing home residents across the Volunteer State. THCA received 74 nominations for 2011.

“Approximately 37,000 individuals work in Tennessee nursing homes, providing outstanding care that enhances the lives of elderly and disabled residents,” said Administrator Paula Boone. “Because their work is difficult and often thankless, we embrace the opportunity to select a few each year who stand out to recognize them and celebrate their accomplishments.”

The Tennessee Health Care Association is a nonprofit organization whose members include long-term care facilities located throughout the state. For more information about nursing homes, visit  www.thca.org.