NASHVILLE-Long-term care facilities across Tennessee are planning events in honor of National Nursing Home Week, which begins on Mother’s Day, May 10, and continues through May 16.

Gov. Phil Bredesen proclaimed May 10-16 Nursing Home Week in Tennessee. In his proclamation, Gov. Bredesen urged “every citizen to honor the elderly and disabled patients of nursing homes by visiting or volunteering at a local nursing home to bring good cheer to the patients and appreciation to the staff who care for our most vulnerable citizens on our behalf.”

The 2009 National Nursing Home Week theme, “Nurturing a Love that Lasts,” recognizes the bonds between nursing home patients and their families, friends and caregivers. The nursing home staff creates a nurturing environment that meets the physical, social, mental, emotional and spiritual needs of patients. At the same time, the patients, who have cared for their families and friends for many years, continue their tradition of friendship and mentoring during their stay at the nursing home.

“Nursing homes across Tennessee are planning a wide variety of activities to celebrate National Nursing Home Week,” said Tennessee Health Care Association (THCA) Executive Director Ron Taylor. “We hope that people in communities throughout the state will take this opportunity to visit a local nursing home and learn more about the good work our members are doing for their patients.”

From Memphis to Bristol, nursing homes have planned many special events for National Nursing Home Week. Many host cookouts and other themed meals. Carnivals, teas and movie nights are other activities nursing homes plan. Contact your local nursing home for more information on how you can get involved in celebration of National Nursing Home Week.    

National Nursing Home Week is an annual observation celebrating the quality care provided by the nation’s long-term care facilities sponsored by the American Health Care Association (AHCA) and the THCA, a nonprofit organization whose members include long-term care facilities located throughout the state. Visit www.thca.org for more information on Tennessee nursing homes.